Caution: Refer to Approved Equipment for Collision Repair Caution in the Preface section.

Important: When replacing panels that involve servicing of stationary glass, refer to service bulletin 431045 before performing any priming or refinishing.

1. Disable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling in SIR.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection in Engine Electrical.



3. Remove all related panels and components.
4. Restore as much of the damage as possible to factory specifications.

Caution: Refer to Foam Sound Deadeners Caution in the Preface section.

5. Note the location and remove the sealers and anti-corrosion materials from the repair area, as necessary. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair in Paint and Coatings.
6. Remove the lower windshield panel. Refer to Windshield Lower Panel Replacement .




Important: Do not damage any inner panels or reinforcements.

7. Locate and drill out all factory welds. Note the number and location of welds for installation of the front upper rail.



8. Remove the damaged front upper rail.

Important: If the location of the original plug weld holes can not be determined, or if structural weld-thru adhesive is present, space the plug weld holes every 40 mm (1 ½ in) apart.

1. Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) plug weld holes as necessary in locations noted from the original front upper rail.
2. Prepare all mating surfaces as necessary.
3. Apply 3M® Weld-Thru coating P/N 05916 or equivalent to all mating surfaces



4. Position the upper rail.



5. Plug weld accordingly.
6. Install the lower windshield panel. Refer to Windshield Lower Panel Replacement .
7. Clean and prepare all welded surfaces.
8. Apply the sealers and anti-corrosion materials to the repair area, as necessary. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair in Paint and Coatings.
9. Paint the repair area. Refer to Basecoat/Clearcoat Paint Systems in Paint and Coatings.
10. Install all related panels and components.
11. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection in Engine Electrical.
12. Enable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling in SIR.