NOTE: The inner fender apron panel is serviced as a separate weld-on panel.
NOTE: The service panel is not fully welded.
NOTE: There is an NVH element mounted inside this panel; it is not serviceable on a new panel, so if damaged, a new element will be required.
1. When replacing the upper panel of the wing apron, the following elements are removed:
- Front bumper trim
- Hood
- Hood Latch Panel
- Both front wings
2. For additional information on this repair procedure, refer to the following sources: For additional information, refer to: Body and Frame (501-26 Body Repairs - Vehicle Specific Information and Tolerance Checks, Description and Operation) / Standard Service Station Techniques (100-00 General Information, Description and Operation).
3. Remove the hood latch panel. For more information, refer to the chapter: Hood Latch Panel (501-27, Removal and Installation).
4. Remove the hood.
5. Remove the accumulation chamber panel. For more information, refer to the chapter: Mixing chamber (412-01 Climate control, Removal and installation).
6. Left side: Remove the air intake pipe.
7. Right side: Release the wiring harness and set it aside.
8. Remove the hood hinge (two M13 bolts).
9. Mill out the contact welding areas.
10. Separate the connections and remove the old panel including the corresponding NVH element.
Installation
1. Prepare a new panel in the areas shown where it is not fully welded and spot weld.
2. Prepare the mating surfaces of the old and new panels.
3. Drill holes in the new panel in preparation for MIG welding.
4. Position the new panel in the desired location and secure it in place. Check the alignment. If it is correct, proceed to the next step. If not, make the necessary adjustments and recheck before continuing.
5. Remove the panel and apply glue to the areas shown.
6. Replace the NVH element if necessary.
7. Apply adhesive to the NVH element.
8. Place the new panel in the required location and secure it.
9. Perform spot welding in the areas shown.
10. Perform electric rivet welding using MIG technology.
11. Clean all welds.
12. Installation of the relevant panels and mechanical elements is carried out in the reverse order of removal.
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