Chevrolet Trax: Front wheelhouse panel replacement

Removal Procedure

1. Disable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling .
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection

NOTE: Sectioning of the front wheelhouse assembly is not recommended. The front wheelhouse service panel is serviced as a complete assembly, which includes the upper front strut mounting surface. The upper strut mounting surface is a dimensionally critical area.

3. Remove the sealers and anti-corrosion materials from the repair area, as necessary. Refer to Anti- Corrosion Treatment and Repair (Base)

NOTE: Inspect the front of the cowl for damage. If the metal surface is damaged, the cowl panel must be repaired to restore the structural integrity of the vehicle.

4. Repair as much of the damage as possible.

Fig. 15: Drilling Out All Factory Welds

5. Locate, mark, and drill out all factory welds (1). Note the number and location of welds for installation of the service assembly.

Fig. 16: Front Wheelhouse

6. Remove the front wheelhouse (1) from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure

Fig. 17: Plug Welds

NOTE: If the location of the original plug weld holes cannot be determined, or if structural weld-thru adhesive is present, space the plug weld holes every 40 mm (1 in).

1. Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) plug weld holes as necessary on service part, in the locations noted from the original assembly (1).
2. Clean and prepare the mating surfaces for welding, as necessary.
3. Apply GM-approved weld-thru coating or equivalent to all mating surfaces. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair (Base) .

Fig. 18: Front Wheelhouse

4. Position the service front wheelhouse front panel to the vehicle (1). Clamp the front wheelhouse in place.

Fig. 19: Aligning Front Wheelhouse And Frame Structure

5. When the service assembly is correctly positioned, plug weld accordingly (1).
6. Measure frequently to ensure proper fit and alignment.
7. Clean and prepare all welded surfaces.
8. Apply the sealers and anti-corrosion materials to the repair area, as necessary. Refer to Anti-Corrosion Treatment and Repair (Base) .
9. Paint the repaired area. Refer to Basecoat/Clearcoat Paint Systems .
10. Install all related panels and components.
11. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection .
12. Enable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling .

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