Chrysler Dodge Caravan 2002 Manual page 1993

23 - 10 BODY
BODY (Continued)
Fig. 13 GRIND SURFACE
1 - PATCH
2 - GAP
3 - DISC GRINDER
Fig. 14 COVER GAPS WITH MESH
1 - GROUND DOWN AREA
2 - PATCH
3 - MESH
PATCHED PANEL SURFACING
After patch panel is installed, the patch area can
be finished using the same methods as finishing
other types of body panels. If mesh material is
exposed in the patched area, grind surface down, and
apply a coat of high quality rigid plastic body filler.
Prime, block sand, and paint as required.
Fig. 15 COVER MESH WITH ADHESIVE
1 - ADHESIVE
2 - MESH
3 - PATCH
4 - SPREADER
STANDARD PROCEDURE - HEAT STAKING
(1) Remove trim panel.
(2) Bend or move the trim panel components at
the heat staked joints. Observe the heat staked loca-
tions and/or component seams for looseness.
(3) Heat stake the components.
(a) If the heat staked or component seam loca-
tion is loose, hold the two components tightly
together and using a soldering gun with a flat tip,
melt the material
together. Do not over heat the affected area, dam-
age to the exterior of the trim panel may occur.
(b) If the heat staked material is broken or miss-
ing, use a hot glue gun to apply new material to
the area to be repaired. The panels that are being
heat staked must be held together while the apply-
ing the glue. Once the new material is in place, it
may be necessary to use a soldering gun to melt
the newly applied material. Do not over heat the
affected area, damage to the exterior of the trim
panel may occur.
(4) Allow the repaired area to cool and verify the
repair.
(5) Install trim panel.
securing the components
RS