Rear Bumper - Heat Distortion
File In Section: 10 - BodyBulletin No.: 53-15-09B
Date: September, 1996
Subject:
Rear Bumper Fascia Heat Distortion
(Modify Impact Bar to Rear Fascia Interface)
Models:
1995 Oldsmobile Eighty Eight
This bulletin is being revised to update the Correction procedure (Step 1.) Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 53-15-09A (Section 10 - Body).
Condition
Some vehicles, in hot weather condition may exhibit distortion to the rear bumper fascia above the license pocket.
Cause
It has been determined that some vehicles were assembled with insufficient shimming between the energy absorbers and rear impact bar. Also, the gap between the fascia support, at the top of the impact bar, and the fascia is too great and is not providing sufficient support to the top of the rear pocket opening. It has been determined that when the rear fascia is exposed to heat, all of the previously mentioned characteristics contribute to the distortion of the rear fascia.
Correction
Important:
Determine whether or not the fascia can be repaired before replacing the fascia by doing the following in a shaded area or indoors:
1. Remove and discard push-in retainers at the license pocket opening (see Figure 1).
2. Loosen impact bar retaining nuts.
Important:
The impact bar to energy absorber nuts should be as loose as possible to allow for maximum rearward movement.
3. Push impact bar as far rearward as possible.
4. Install as many 3 mm shims, P/N 25637894, as possible into the space created between Impact bar and energy absorbers (see Figure 2).
5. With the aid of a helper, position impact bar as far upward as possible and tighten in place (see Figure 3).
If fascia distortion still exists, replace fascia by doing the following:
1. Remove and replace the rear bumper fascia. Refer to Section 10-4 of the Service Manual for service procedures.
2. Assemble all related components to the rear fascia including the impact bar. When attaching the fascia to the impact bar, DO NOT install push-in retainers at the license pocket opening (see Figure 1).
3. Install rear bumper to vehicle. Securely fasten fascia to vehicle leaving the impact bar loosely attached to the energy absorbers.
Important:
The impact bar to energy absorber nuts should be as loose as possible to allow for maximum rearward movement.
4. Push impact bar as far rearward as possible.
5. Install as many 3 mm shims P/N 25637894, as possible into the space created between impact bar and energy absorbers (see Figure 2).
6. With the aid of a helper, position impact bar as far upward as possible and tighten in place (see Figure 3).
Parts Information
Parts are currently available from GMSPO.
Warranty Information
For vehicles repaired under warranty, use as shown.