3-22
1997/98 Chevrolet Corvette
Collision Repair
RAIL
RAIL
ADHESIVE
FLOOR
Fig.␣ 3.44 — Remove Reinforcement
FRT
REINFORCEMENT
Fig.␣ 3.45 — Reinforcement Bonded to
Tunnel and Floor
Fig.␣ 3.43 — Floor Panel Service Part
Front Floor Panel
The floor panel is serviced as separate left and
right side components (Fig.␣ 3.43). The panels are
bonded around the outer edges and across the
seat mounting braces. For repair other than full
panel replacement see
SMC Repair Procedures.
— REMOVE OR DISCONNECT —
1
Remove all panels and components to gain
access to the floor panel. This will include
removing seat and carpeting.
Notice: When servicing the right front
floor panel, the bonded and bolted
electrical component mounting brackets
must be removed. Remove or reposition
electrical components and wiring harness
as necessary to avoid damage.
2
Visually inspect for damage to the frame rail
and seat mounting brace, restore as much of
the damage as possible to specifications
using three-dimensional measuring
procedures.
3
Remove the side reinforcement bonded to
the floor panel and the frame rail (Fig.␣ 3.44).
4
Remove the side reinforcement bonded to
the floor panel and the tunnel area
(Fig.␣ 3.45). NOTE: Use care when removing
the reinforcement, if damaged during the
removal process replacement will be
necessary.
5
Apply upward force and heat simultaneously
to the floor panel as necessary to detach
adhesive. Remove damaged floor panel.
Important: Save wiring harness clips (3 per
side), for transfer to service floor panel.
— INSTALL OR CONNECT —
1
Remove all original adhesive using suitable
tool. Scuff all bonding surfaces to ensure
proper adhesion.
(Refer to SMC Repair
Procedures.)
2
Clean and prepare all bonding surfaces as
necessary.
(Refer to SMC Repair Procedures.)
Important: Prior to refinishing, refer to
GM P/N 4901 Refinish Manual for
recommended products.
3
Apply approved anti-corrosion primer.
Notice: DO NOT top-coat any bonding
surface.
