GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Body Side Molding Replacement Luxury (Y91)

Tools Required

    • J 41409 Body Molding Removal Tool
    • J 25070 Heat Gun
    • 3M 07502 3M Scotch Brite Adhesive and Stripe Removal Disc

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 321643  Size: SH
  1. In order to protect the body from scratches, use masking tape on the body-side edge of the molding. The tape will also help in aligning the molding during installation.
  2. Heat the upper edge of the body-side molding to 21-32°C (70-90°F).
  3. • Keep the J 25070 at a distance of 152 mm (6 in) from the surface.
    • Use the J 25070 in circular motion for 30 seconds.

    Object Number: 321646  Size: SH
  4. In order to cut the adhesive material, use the J 41409 or a 0.8 mm (0.03 in) plastic line.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 321645  Size: SH

    Important: In order to ensure a good replacement of new adhesive or of old adhesive retained molding, verify that the panel surface meets the following conditions:

       • The temperature of the surface is approximately 24-41°C (80-105°F).
       • The panel surface is clean.
       • The panel surface is free of wax or of an oily film.

  1. Use a general purpose adhesive-remover, or attach a 3M 07502 to a drill. You can also use a 5-8 cm (2-3 in) square rubber or felt block. Use the cleaners in order to remove all of the adhesive from the body panel.
  2. Clean the affected panel area with a wax remover and with a lubricant remover. Finish the cleaning of the panel by wiping the area with isopropyl alcohol.
  3. Important: If you paint the molding, do not heat the molding. If heated, the molding will become distorted.

  4. Use the J 25070 or a heat lamp in order to warm the body panel to 24-41°C (80-105°F).
  5. Before removing the plastic backing, make a practice fitting of the piece to the vehicle. Check the alignment, all of the gaps, and all of the clearances.
  6. Important: During the installation, do not distort the part. The part may take a temporary set to the distorted shape and appear to have the proper adhesion. However, the part will spring back to the original shape and cause a loss of adhesion.

  7. If you like the practice fit, strip the backing from all of the tape.
  8. Set the top row of tape first, and work down the panel to the other rows of the tape.

    Important: If the molding is set into place, do not attempt to remove the panel. If you attempt to remove the molding, you will damage the adhesive strips, and you can damage the molding.

  9. Roll the molding out slowly on the surface of the body. Use a shop towel, rolled into a ball and held in your hand, in order to apply consistent pressure to the panel.