What is the I-CAR recommendation regarding the use of adhesives for panel installation?
I-CAR recommends following the vehicle maker’s recommendations regarding the use of adhesives for panel installation. Using adhesives without the vehicle maker’s recommendation is a business decision. With that being said, there has been an increase in use of adhesives by the vehicle makers. General Motors has begun allowing the use of adhesive on several outer body panels. In General Motors technical service bulletin #02-08-98-001, GM provides specific recommendations regarding the use of adhesive on roof panels, door skins, quarter panels, and rear body panels on specific vehicles. Using adhesives on GM vehicles without specific procedures is a business decision. Weld-bonding is also another method of panel replacement that may be recommended by the vehicle maker. Weld-bonding is the combination of using STRSW or GMA (MIG) plug welds along with adhesive to attach an exterior body panel. When weld-bonding, DaimlerChryler recommends “to replace any suspected adhesive with a two-compone
