Backlight - Valance Separation
NUMBER: 23-005-01GROUP: Body
DATE: Mar. 30, 2001
SUBJECT:
Backlight Valence Separation
OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves repairing a separated backlight valence.
MODELS:
1996-2000 (JX) Sebring Convertible
2001 (JR) Sebring Convertible
SYMPTOM/CONDITION:
The backlight valence may become partially or completely separated from the backlight.
DIAGNOSIS:
Examine the separated area. If only a portion of the valence has separated from the backlight, attempt to pull the rest of the material away (Fig. 1). If the bond between the valence and backlight is still strong, perform the Repair Procedure in the area of the separation. If the bond is weak, perform the Repair Procedure over the entire length of the backlight.
PARTS REQUIRED:
NOTE:
FOLLOW ALL ADHESIVE MANUFACTURERS INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS.
REPAIR PROCEDURE:
THIS REPAIR IS COMPATIBLE WITH DAIMLERCHRYSLER'S MOBILE SERVICE PROGRAM AND DOES NOT REQUIRE HOISTS OR OTHER FULL SERVICE FACILITY SPECIAL EQUIPMENT.
1. Unlatch and prop the convertible top header to a height of 200 mm (10 in.).
2. Scrape the glass and back side of the valence with a razor to remove any of the original adhesive. Place a 2 in. wide strip of duct tape on the glass the full length of the repair area. The tape should be placed 1-3 mm above the black material that can be seen through the glass at the bottom of the backlight (Fig. 2). This will be used as a reference line and to reduce the amount of adhesive on the glass during step # 8.
3. Place another 2 in. wide strip of duct tape along the edge of the valence to cover the exposed surfaces and protect them from any adhesive damage. The tape should curl over the edge of the valence to protect the edge.
4. Using # 50 grit emery cloth, roughen the glass below the tape line. It is important that the glass surface be scored fully for the adhesive to hold. Roughen the back of the valence in the mating area. Be careful not to damage the thread seams during this operation.
5. Using a lint free cloth clean the valence and glass mating surfaces with isopropyl alcohol. Allow to dry for 5 minutes.
6. Apply the activator from the adhesive kit, covering both the glass and valence surfaces uniformly. For repairs over the entire length of the backlight, do one half at a time.
7. Apply the adhesive from the kit to the glass surface in a uniform layer. There must be sufficient adhesive on the surface, but not so much that it will squeeze out. The adhesive should be placed along the lower edge of the glass so it can squeeze upward.
8. Mate the valence to the glass using the duct tape as a guide. Apply hand pressure and smooth out bonded area making sure there is a good uniform bond with no bumps.
9. Clean off any excess glue with a scraper and a small amount of isopropyl alcohol.
10. Allow the adhesive to cure at room temperature for a period of 18 hours without any stress on the top.
POLICY:
Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.
TIME ALLOWANCE:
FAILURE CODE: