GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 743366  Size: SH
  1. Remove all related panels and components including the lower quarter filler.
  2. Restore as much of the damage as possible to the factory specifications.
  3. Note the location and remove the following materials, as necessary:
  4. • The sealers
    • The sound deadeners
    • The anti-corrosion materials

    Object Number: 743368  Size: SH

    Important: Do not damage any of the inner panels or the reinforcements.

  5. Cut the panel where sectioning is to be performed.

  6. Object Number: 743369  Size: SH
  7. Locate, and drill out all of the factory welds. Note the number and location of the welds for the installation of the service part.

  8. Object Number: 743370  Size: SH
  9. Remove the damaged quarter panel.

Installation Procedure

The quarter panel may be serviced as a complete panel in the event the roof panel is to be replaced. Sectioning procedures have been developed to simplify the repair. The service part can be replaced by making sectioning cuts at the window pillars.


    Object Number: 743371  Size: SH
  1. Cut the replacement quarter panel in corresponding locations to fit the remaining original panel. The sectioning joint should be trimmed to allow 1.5 times the metal thickness at the sectioning joint.

  2. Object Number: 743372  Size: SH
  3. Create a 50 mm (2 in) (a) backing plate from the unused portion of the service part. Trim the backing plate as necessary to fit behind the sectioning joint.

  4. Object Number: 743373  Size: SH
  5. Drill 8 mm (0.3 in) plug weld holes along the sectioning cut on the remaining original part. Locate these holes 13 mm (0.5 in) from the edge and spaced 40 mm (1.6 in) apart.

  6. Object Number: 743374  Size: SH

    Important: In any area with excess damage, space the plug weld holes every 40 mm (1.6 in) apart.

  7. Drill 8 mm (0.3 in) plug weld holes in the service part as necessary in the locations noted from the original panel and along the sectioning cut.

  8. Object Number: 743375  Size: SH
  9. Prepare all of the attachment surfaces as necessary.
  10. Fit the backing plate halfway into the sectioning joint, clamp and plug weld to the vehicle.

  11. Object Number: 743376  Size: SH
  12. Position the quarter panel to the vehicle.

  13. Object Number: 743377  Size: SH
  14. Plug weld accordingly.
  15. Caution: Properly seal the fuel filler opening before you position the quarter panel. Failure to seal the opening could allow exhaust gas to leak into the interior of the vehicle, causing personal injury.

  16. To create a solid weld with minimum heat distortion, make 25 mm (1 in) stitch welds along the seam with 25 mm (1 in) gaps between them. Then go back and complete the stitch weld.
  17. Clean and prepare all of the welded surfaces.
  18. Important: Prior to refinishing, refer to publication GM 4901M-2001 GM Approved Refinish Materials for the recommended products. Do not combine the paint systems. Refer to the paint manufacturer's recommendations.

  19. Apply the following products, as necessary:
  20. • The sound deadening materials
    • An approved anti-corrosion primer
    • The sealers and refinish as necessary
  21. Install all of the related panels and components.