General Body Construction
The following are supported by a front crossmember frame which is rigidly bolted to the body at six locations:
| • | The engine. |
| • | The front suspension lower control arms. |
| • | The steering linkage. |
Two rubber/silicone mounts secure the engine to the front crossmember frame. Two rubber insulated upper mounts attach the front struts to the vehicle body.
The following are supported by a rear axle cradle which is attached to the body through rubber insulators at four locations:
| • | The rear differential. |
| • | The rear axles. |
| • | The rear suspension components. |
The underbody frames (cradles) must be properly aligned to maintain the correct suspension and wheel alignment.
The individual underbody components contribute directly to the overall strength of the unibody. Use proper welding techniques during service repair operations.
The components must be corrosion protected whenever body repair operations damage or destroy the original sealing surfaces. Use a two part catalyzed primer such as PPG DP40 or equivalent when corrosion protection is needed to welded surfaces. Use GM Goodwrench Anti-Corrosion Compound P/N 12346225 or equivalent when needing a general corrosion protectant.
