Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class Service Manual page 98

Front end
The front end consists of:
• An extruded aluminum section
• A single-part aluminum crash box connecting the
front longitudinal members
• A multi-piece framework of sheet steel for holding
the headlamps, the bumper, the washer fluid
reservoir and the engine hood catches
The entire front end is bolted to the frame forestruc-
ture, as are the individual components of the front end
to each other. If any parts are damaged, this makes it
possible to replace them more cost-effectively and
with no welding required.
Crossmember under the instrument panel
The load-bearing element is a square aluminum tube
bolted onto the two A-pillars. To prevent the steering
wheel from shaking when the engine is idling, a strut
is used to support the steering column tube against
the firewall.
All the major assemblies located in the vicinity of the
instrument panel, the steering column tube and the
instrument panel itself, are attached to the cross-
member with brackets and mounting consoles.
Introduction of the New GLK-Class (USA), Introduction into Service Manual for Model Series 204
Side wall
The side wall is a single-piece unit. The outsides and
insides are connected at various points during
assembly. This is done in such a way as to ensure that
the cross sections of the A, B, C and D-pillars, the side
longitudinal members and the roof frame have the
appropriate strength and rigidity. Additional sheet
metal reinforcements are also welded in, which extend
across the entire length of the A, B, C and D-pillars.
Rear area
In order to conform to the specific geometry of the
GLK, the independent multilink rear suspension, the
fuel tank and the spare tire well are located at the rear
end in accordance with the body structure.
The rear area is fitted with additional longitudinal and
lateral reinforcements in order to cope with the heavy
stresses placed on the vehicle structure in a rear-end
collision.
The fasteners for the backrest and the hinges and
catches of the folding 1 / 3 and 2 / 3 rear backrest are
mounted on an all-round structure. The structure is
welded to the inner shell of the side wall and to the
floor panel at the bottom. This also improves the
torsional stiffness of the bodyshell.
Bodywork
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