Tools Required
J 42058 Frame Adapter Clamp
Removal Procedure
Caution: Refer to Approved Equipment for Collision Repair Caution in the Preface section.
The front wheelhouse is made of sheet molded compound (SMC), and is bonded to
the front structure and frame rail with structural adhesive.
- Disable the SIR system. Refer to
SIR Disabling and Enabling
in SIR.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to
Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection
in Engine Electrical.
- Remove all related panels and components.
- Remove
the wheelhouse by applying heat and pry to detach adhesive along the bonding surface (1).
- Remove
the wheelhouse (1) from the vehicle.
- Save any and all brackets, mounting studs, and accessories for transfer
to the new front wheelhouse.
- Note the location of the adhesive and remove all remaining loose adhesive.
- Inspect the front structure and frame rails for damage.
- Repair as much of the damage as possible to the factory specifications.
- Use J 42058
to secure
the vehicle if pulling and straightening is required.
Installation Procedure
Important: Shims may be necessary to achieve proper
panel alignment.
- Before applying adhesive dry fit the wheelhouse for proper fit and alignment.
Important: DO NOT top coat any bonding surface. Use
primer only on bonding surfaces. Refer to adhesive manufacturer's recommendations.
- Clean and prepare all bonding mating surfaces according to adhesive manufacturer's
recommendations.
- Apply
a consistent bead of structural adhesive (1) 10 mm (3/8 in) in
diameter to the wheelhouse to mate with the front structure and frame rail. Refer
to
Sheet Molded Compound (SMC) Panel Bonding
.
- Install
the wheelhouse (1) to the vehicle.
- Apply pressure to the wheelhouse to set the adhesive.
- Clamp or mechanically fasten the wheelhouse into place as necessary.
- Remove any excess adhesive.
- Install all related panels and components.
- Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to
Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection
in Engine Electrical.
- Enable the SIR system. Refer to
SIR Disabling and Enabling
in SIR.