Important: Front wheelhouse sectioning procedures can be used when damage is limited to the front portion of the wheelhouse assemblies. In such a situation, the technician does not need to replace the entire wheelhouse.

1. Remove all related panels and components.
2. Visually inspect and restore as much of the damage as possible to factory specifications.
3. Place 25 mm (1 in) wide masking tape following the forward contour of the strut tower (1).
4. Cut the wheelhouse along the outside edge of the masking tape (2).
5. Locate, mark and drill out the factory welds attaching the wheelhouse to the radiator support and the upper and lower front rails.
6. Remove the damaged section of the wheelhouse.

1. When preparing the service part, cut the forward apron well beyond the 25 mm (1 in) overlap needed for sectioning.
2. Temporarily position the new wheelhouse section on the vehicle.
3. Mark a line on the new wheelhouse section by tracing along the cut line of the original wheelhouse.
4. Remove the new wheelhouse section.
5. Measure and cut 25 mm (1 in) inboard along the traced line to create an overlap (1). The original wheelhouse will overlap the modified service part.
6. Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) holes every 35 mm along the overlap on the new wheelhouse section.
7. Position the new wheelhouse section.
8. Check the fit and plug weld accordingly on the outboard side of the panel (2).
9. Clean and prepare welded surfaces

Important: Do not combine paint systems. Prior to refinishing, refer to GM 4901MD-99 Refinish Manual for recommended products.

10. Apply sealers and anti-corrosion materials as necessary.
11. Install all related panels and components.