GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

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

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 321643  Size: SH
  1. Apply masking tape to the body side border of the molding in order to protect the body from scratches. The tape will also aid in aligning the molding during installation.

  2. Object Number: 321646  Size: SH
  3. Use the J 41409 or a 0.8 mm (0.03 in) fishing line in order to cut through the adhesive material.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 321645  Size: SH

    Important: In order to ensure a good replacement of new or old adhesive retained molding, verify that the panel surface temperature is approximately 24-41°C (80-105°F), and the panel surface is clean and free of any wax or oily film. If you will be painting the molding, do not bake the molding. Doing this will distort the part, making the part useless.

  1. Use a general purpose adhesive remover or 3M 07502 3M P/N 7502, attached 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 traces of adhesive from the body panel.
  2. Clean the affected panel area with wax and grease remover, and wipe with isopropyl alcohol.
  3. Use the J 25070 or a heat lamp in order to warm the body panel to 24-41°C (80-105°F).
  4. Make a trial fitting of the piece to the vehicle, checking the alignment and all the gaps and the clearances. Do this before you remove the plastic backing.
  5. Important: Do not distort the part during the installation. The part may take a temporary set to the distorted shape and appear to have the proper adhesion, but the part will spring back to the original shape and cause a loss of adhesion.

  6. Once you are satisfied with the trial fit, peel the backing from all of the tape.
  7. Set the top row of tape first, and work down the panel to the other rows of tape.

    Important: Once the molding is set into place, do not attempt to remove the panel. This will destroy the adhesive strips and could lead to part distortion and damage.

  8. Hand roll the molding to the body in order to ensure proper adhesion. A shop towel rolled into a ball and held in the palm of your fist will aid in applying a consistent, evenly distributed pressure to the panel.