GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Repair Procedure

Important: Follow these guidelines when performing Sheet Metal Compound (SMC) repairs:

   • Clean, scuff, and solvent wipe all the areas to be repaired.
   • For added strength and durability, V-groove and reinforce at least one side of SMC joints using a tacky mesh tape or equivalent.
   • When partial panel replacement is performed, use 50 mm (2 in) backing patches made from SMC or E-coated steel, as a reinforcement for all the butt joints.

  1. Scuff the area where repair is to be performed.
  2. Clean the bond area with a lint-free rag using a water-based cleaner.
  3. Cracks in SMC should be grooved and reinforced on at least 1 side using a tacky mesh tape or equivalent.
  4. Sectioning joints require backing strips 50 mm (2 in) wide, which can be cut from leftover pieces of SMC.
  5. Apply a thin coat of Goodwrench Structural Bonding Epoxy GM P/N 12345726, or equivalent, to the entire joint area extending across the cut lines and across the backing strip.
  6. • Use tacky mesh tape or an equivalent reinforcement matting.
    • Allow to cure according to the adhesive manufacturer's recommendations.
  7. Shape and refinish the repair areas as necessary to resemble the original appearance.

Bonding Procedure

Important: Prepare the surfaces to be bonded according to adhesive manuacturer's recommendations. Many adhesive manufacturers have different preparation methods.

  1. Use supplies and repair materials from the same manufacturer. Do not intermix systems. Mixing materials from different manufacturers can produce unsatisfactory results.
  2. Ensure that the surface is clean and dry before applying adhesive.
  3. Apply a consistent adhesive bond to the prepared surfaces.
  4. Mechanically retain the panel in place in order to wet out the adhesive along the entire bonding surface.
  5. Allow the area to cure according to the adhesive manufacturer's recommendations.