GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

When you splice a replacement panel or a portion of a replacement panel to an existing panel, use the following procedure:


    Object Number: 95551  Size: SH
  1. Clean and inspect the damaged area. Refer to General Plastic Repair .

  2. Object Number: 95553  Size: SH
  3. Cut the damaged area and/or the replacement panel to the appropriate size so that the panel fills the opening.

  4. Object Number: 95556  Size: SH
  5. Scuff sand the damaged area and the replacement panel's mating surfaces.

  6. Object Number: 95567  Size: SH
  7. Fit the panel to the opening:
  8. • If the bonding strips are exposed, mechanically attach (1) and bond the strips together.
    • If the bonding strips are not exposed, cut or grind the edge of the panels in order to form a good butt joint (3). Then bevel the edges (2) to about 30 degrees in order to form a dished butt joint.

    Object Number: 366225  Size: SH
  9. Install a backing patch (3). Refer to Backing Patch Fabrication .

  10. Object Number: 95562  Size: SH
  11. Following the manufacturers instructions, mix and apply a light coat of the repair material to the outside of the damaged area.

  12. Object Number: 95561  Size: SH
  13. Lay a piece of reinforcement mat into the repair material.
  14. • The mat should extend 38-51 mm (1.5-2.0 in) beyond either side of the repair area.
    • All of the mat must be at a level below the final finished surface.
  15. Using an applicator, saturate and remove any trapped air from the repair area.

  16. Object Number: 95562  Size: SH
  17. Apply a second coat of the repair material in the same manner.

  18. Object Number: 95561  Size: SH
  19. Lay a second piece of mat into the repair area in the same manner.

  20. Object Number: 366225  Size: SH
  21. Apply the final layer or repair material in the same manner until the repair material (1) is at a level slightly higher than the surrounding area.

  22. Object Number: 193342  Size: SH
  23. Cure the material according to the manufacturers instructions.
  24. Apply and cure additional layers as needed.

  25. Object Number: 479231  Size: SH
  26. Rough out the surface using a #80 grit disc on a D A sander.

  27. Object Number: 95546  Size: SH
  28. Apply a polyester type material to provide a uniform surface for sanding, such as Sikkens® Polystop LP, or equivalent.
  29. Prime and refinish as necessary. Refer to the GM Approved Refinish Materials book GM P/N GM4901M-D which identifies the paint systems you may use. Always refer to the latest revision of the 4901M-D book. This operation is to be performed prior to the application of sealers, waxes, deadeners, and antirust compounds. Follow the procedures recommended by the material manufacturer.