T-TOP ROOF AREA WATER LEAKS PROCEDURE TO SEAL WELD AREAS

Models Affected: 1982-91 FIREBIRD

CONDITION: Water leak in rear hatch area at the roof panel. Most likely to occur on T-Top vehicles.

NOTE: This condition may appear to be a leak at the T-Top weatherstrip. It is advised that this repair be performed and tested on vehicles with leaks in this area BEFORE any other repair is performed.

CAUSE: Spot weld burn-throughs in rear hatch gutter area between hatch hinge attaching points.

CORRECTION: Seal weld areas as follows:

1. Open hatch

2. Compress hatch opening weatherstrip to improve access and apply a thin even coat of 3M Clear Auto Sealer (3M #08551) or equivalent to hatch gutter area between hinges with a small brush. Avoid getting sealer on weatherstrip. Weld locations should be given slightly extra material if possible.

NOTE: Some weld flash may exist near some of the spot welds. This flash is sharp and care should be taken to avoid injury when determining the location of the welds using the fingers.

3. Close hatch.

4. Follow sealer manufacturers recommendation for dry time and test area by running a large amount of water over area. Due to the small size of the burn through holes, the water test should last at least 15 minutes.

Labor Operation Number: T1648

Labor Time: 0.4 Hour

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.