1997/98 Chevrolet Corvette
Collision Repair
3-17
Fig.␣ 3.31 — Side Door Opening Service Part
FR
T
Fig.␣ 3.32 — Service Part Can Be Separated
at the Bonded and Riveted Joint
Fig.␣ 3.33 — Adapter Clamp for
Conventional Anchoring System
Front Side Door Opening
Assembly
The Sheet Moulded Compound (SMC) Side Door
Opening assembly is a two panel assembly that
bonds along the frame rail and up the front body
hinge pillar. The service assembly (Fig.␣ 3.31) can
be disassembled at the riveted and bonded joint
(Fig.␣ 3.32) for individual panel replacement. If
sectioning the side door opening assembly, use
backing plates.
(Refer to SMC Repair
Procedures.)
— REMOVE OR DISCONNECT —
1
Visually inspect, if any damage to the frame
rails or wheelhouse mounting areas exist,
then restore as much of the damage as
possible to specifications using
three-dimensional measuring procedures.
Notice: Use Kent Moore Tools Frame
Adapter Clamp (P/N J42058) to secure the
vehicle if pulling and straightening is
required (Fig.␣ 3.33).
Notice: The frame rails and bumper impact
bars must be serviced as required, and
returned to three-dimensional coordinates
before any SMC repairs are attempted.
2
Remove all panels and components to gain
access to door side frame. This may include
the following components: quarter panel and
quarter inner splash shield
(NOTE: The door
side frame can be removed if the quarter
panel is loosened from it).
Notice: Use caution when removing the
side door opening assembly in the area of
the instrument panel. Overlapping interior
trim components must be removed first to
prevent damage.
3
Remove latch striker closeout cover and
striker. Also, remove the trim screws that
attach the side door frame panel to the rail.
(NOTE: These screws must be re-installed to
secure the service panel in place until the
adhesive cures.)
Notice: Make sure the fuel inlet is sealed
before proceeding with repair procedure.
4
Apply heat and pry to break bond along area
indicated in Fig.␣ 3.34.
(NOTE: Use caution
along the underside of the vehicle when
applying heat not to de-bond the floor panels
from the frame rail.)