CAUTION: When holes must be drilled or punched
in an inner body panel, verify depth of space to the
outer body panel, electrical wiring, or other compo-
nents. Damage to vehicle can result.
Do not weld exterior panels unless combustible
material on the interior of vehicle is removed from
the repair area. Fire or hazardous conditions, can
result.
Always have a fire extinguisher ready for use
when welding.
Disconnect the negative battery cable clamp
when servicing electrical components that are live
when the ignition is OFF. Damage to electrical sys-
tem can result.
Do not use abrasive chemicals or compounds on
painted surfaces. Damage to finish can result.
Do not use harsh alkaline based cleaning sol-
vents on painted or upholstered surfaces. Damage
to finish or color can result.
Do not hammer or pound on plastic trim panel
when servicing interior trim. Plastic panels can
break.
BODY COMPONENTS
PAINT
DESCRIPTION
The original equipment finish is a multi-step pro-
cess that involves cleaning, electrodeposition (e-coat),
base coat, and clear coat steps. Additionally, selected
areas of the vehicle may be coated with an anti-chip
finish.
OPERATION
On most vehicles a two-stage paint application
(base coat/clear coat) is used. Color that is applied to
primer is called base coat. The clear coat protects the
base coat from ultraviolet light and provides a dura-
ble high-gloss finish.
STATIONARY GLASS
DESCRIPTION
Windshields and selected stationary glass are
structural members of the vehicle. The windshield
glass is bonded to the windshield frame with ure-
thane adhesive.
OPERATION
Windshields are made of two pieces of glass with a
plastic inner layer. Windshields and other stationary
glass protect the occupants from the effects of the
elements. Windshields are also used to retain some
airbags in position during deployment. Urethane
bonded glass is difficult to salvage during removal.
The urethane bonding is difficult to cut or clean from
any surface. Before removing the glass, check the
availability of replacement components.
SEATS
DESCRIPTION
Seat modules are made up of a seat frame, seat
cushion, seat back cushion, a covering material, and
the electrical components used for power operation, if
equipped. Some seat systems also contain seat belt
components and supplemental restraint systems.
OPERATION
Seat assemblies transport the occupants in comfort
and safety. Seat assemblies also help position occu-
pants correctly in the event of airbag deployment.
Seat cushions, coverings, and electrical components
are serviceable. Refer to the appropriate group in
this manual.
EXTERIOR COMPONENTS
DESCRIPTION
Exterior sheet metal components make up the
exterior of the vehicle. Some exterior metal systems
are welded assemblies, such as doors and hoods.
Some exterior trim items are made of composite.
OPERATION
The exterior is finished in various metal stampings
and composite moldings. These assemblies give the
vehicle a finished appearance and protect the occu-
pants from the elements. Some components are part
of the energy absorbing system used to protect the
occupants in collisions. The exterior sheet metal is
repairable and adjustable for fit and finish. Welded
component systems are adjustable as a system. Trim
components made of composite are stamped with the
type of material used. DaimlerChrysler uses various
fasteners to retain trim items. At times, it is not pos-
sible to remove trim items without damaging the fas-
tener. If it is not possible to remove an item without
damaging a component, cut or break the fasteners
and use new ones when installing the component.
DOOR COMPONENTS
The front and rear door on all LH models require
the same basic service procedures regardless of door
trim configuration. The art used in this section is
typical and features only one of the current produc-
tion models.
23 - 2 BODY LH
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)
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