GAP BETWEEN REAR LOWER SIDE MOLDING AND REAR QUARTER

You may encounter a condition of the rear quarter-to-bumper extension warping. This condition may cause a gap between the rear quarter lower molding and bumper extension.

In some cases, the lip flange at the rear of the side molding may not be sufficiently formed over. This pushes the molding away from the extension panel. In some cases, bending the lip down may correct this condition. See Figure 1.

In other cases, the use of a Universal type molding clip (Figure 2) or a large hood insulator retainer (Figure 3) will be necessary to repair this gapping condition. The Universal type clip has a bolt for retention to the extension panel. The hood insulator retainer has a push in spike to hold the side molding to the extension.

INSTALLATION PROCEDURE:

Using Hood Insulator Retainer

1. Remove rear body side molding.

2. Using a 7/32" drill bit, drill hole in the extension panel 1" forward from the rear and 2 3/4" from the bottom edge (Figure 4).

3. Install side molding. When pushing retainer through pre-drilled hole, use a nut driver or equivalent to brace backside of rubber extension to aid in pressing spike through hole. Gluing retainer to body molding will hold retainer in place when installing.

NOTICE: The plastic retainer is preferred because it will not rust.

Using Universal Clip

1. Remove rear body side molding.

2. Wedge clip in upper rear corner of molding (Figure 2).

3. Without installing molding to body clips, align molding and mark location of hole.

4. Drill hole the appropriate size for the stud on the clip being used.

5. Install side molding with stud going through pre-drilled hole. Install large washer and nut on back side of stud and tighten.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.