Body - Expandable Foam Usage With Collision Repairs
Bulletin: 93-10-20Date: April '93
Ref.No.: 93-131-10
Corp.Ref.No.: 331019
SUBJECT:
EXPANDABLE FOAM USAGE WITH COLLISION DAMAGE REPAIRS (INFORMATIONAL)
MODELS AFFECTED:
1993 REGAL
When performing collision repairs or replacing some structural components on 1993 Regals, it is important that the foam blocking material used for noise, water and dust control be replaced as well.
This foam material can be obtained in two different types:
1. a single part material
2. a two component material
Either material is applicable for replacement of the original production material, since both are a "closed cell material" and are not water absorbent.
The locations for this material are indicated on the illustration. Similar locations will be found on other vehicles.
SINGLE PART MATERIAL
This material is available from most local hardware or building supply stores under a variety of trade names. It is available in 12 to 24 oz. cans and includes a straw type nozzle for "hard to reach" areas.
Performance characteristics include:
- Slow application rates, easy to work with
- Low expansion rates, apply amount to fill void required
- Tack free cure time= 45 minutes, full cure = 8 hours
TWO COMPONENT MATERIAL
This material has more of an industrial application, but can be obtained (from the sources listed) in various quantities useful for collision repairs.
It is especially useful when filling "blind" areas (areas that can't be seen) that require the expansion of the material to ensure sealing.
Performance characteristics include:
- Fast application rates, high pressure cans
- High expansion rates, between 8 to 1 or 10 to 1 (See Note)
- Tack free cure time= 2 to 4 minutes, full cure= 4 hours
NOTE:
Our experiments indicate the following information;
Time of Shot (In Sec.) Volume of Foam (In Cu.In.)
3 Seconds Approx. 120 Cu.In.
5 Seconds Approx. 200 Cu.In.
15 Seconds Approx. 650 Cu.In.
The typical application would not exceed a 3 second shot.
NOTICE:
DO NOT USE MORE THAN WAS NEEDED FOR PRODUCTION APPLICATIONS! Over application of this material in some areas of the vehicle may change performance characteristics and is not recommended.
It is recommended that a small amount be applied into a disposable container to become familiar with the rate of discharge and ensure proper mixing of both material parts.
Call the following sources for information on sales and distribution.
"HANDI FOAM" KIT
FoMo Products Inc. *
2775 Barber Rd.
P.O. Box 1078
Norton, Ohio 44203
1-800-321-5585 or 216-753-4585
"FROTH PAK" KIT
Insta-Foam Products, Inc. *
1500 Cedarwood Drive
Joliet, Il. 60433-3187
1-800-800-FOAM or 815-741-6800
As always, follow the manufacturer's recommendations for application and safety.
* We believe these sources and their equipment to be reliable. There may be additional manufacturers of such equipment. General Motors does not endorse, indicate any preference for or assume any responsibility for the products or equipment from these firms or for any such items which may be available from other sources.