SERVICE MANUAL UPDATE-SEC. 10 CONVERTIBLE PINCH WELD ACCESS.

Subject: SERVICE MANUAL UPDATE - SECTION 10 - CONVERTIBLE PINCH WELD ACCESSIBILITY Models Affected: 1983-93 FIREBIRD AND SUNBIRD MODELS

APPLICATION: FIREBIRD MODELS 1991 through 1992 SUNBIRD MODELS 1983 through 1993

This bulletin is being issued to inform dealers that the pinch welds on the rocker panels have been covered by a reinforcement and cannot be utilized effectively to facilitate frame pulling/straightening. Thus, it will be necessary for the repair technician to obtain or create pinch weld tabs. These tabs are to be placed on the inboard forward and rearward ends of the rocker reinforcement.

These tabs can be purchased through GM Dealer Equipment and come in two styles, "L" and "T" types. The "T" type is recommended for convertible applications.

If the technician needs to create "T" type weld-on tabs, the technician must obtain eight 12" (305 mm) long by 3/4" (19 mm) by 1/2" (13 mm) and 5/8" (16 mm) thick angle iron. The technician will then need to drill eight (8) holes to facilitate plug welding. These holes should be 3/8" (10 mm) in diameter and should be done to all eight (8) pieces of steel. Next, take two (2) pieces of angle iron (with the drilled holes at the top) and mig weld both pieces together. Now, weld these tabs to the inboard/forward and rearward edge of the rocker reinforcement as per illustration.

Anchoring can now be accomplished using either process through normal unibody equipment.

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.