wheel size MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER 2006 User Guide

HUB / BEARING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING -
(1) Raise and support the vehicle.
(2) Remove the grease cap.
(3) Position a dial indicator against the face of the
wheel hub (Fig. 3).
(4) Tighten the locking screw on the clamping nut
(Fig. 3).
(5) Pull the wheel hub firmly back and forth and
read off the wheel bearing play on the dial gauge.
(Wheel bearing play should be 0.02 - 0.04 mm
(0.000787 - 0.00158 in.).
(6) If necessary, loosen the locking screw and
adjust the wheel bearing play by loosing or tighten-
ing the clamping nut.
(7) Retighten the locking screw and recheck the
wheel bearing play.
REMOVAL
(1) Raise and support the vehicle.
(2) Remove the front wheels (Refer to 22 - TIRES/
WHEELS/WHEELS - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the disc brake caliper adapter (Refer to
5 - BRAKES/HYDRAULIC/MECHANICAL/DISC
BRAKE CALIPER ADAPTER - REMOVAL).
(4) Remove the wheel flange ring (if equipped with
dual rear wheels) (Fig. 5).
(5) Remove the disc brake rotor (Refer to 5 -
BRAKES/HYDRAULIC/MECHANICAL/ROTORS -
REMOVAL).
(6) Remove the grease cap (Fig. 4).
(7) Loosen the bolt on the clamping nut and
remove the clamping nut (Fig. 4).
(8) Remove the thrust washer (Fig. 4).
(9) Remove the wheel hub and tapered roller bear-
ing from the stub axle assembly (Fig. 4).
Fig. 2 LCA BUSHING INSTALL
1 - SPECIAL TOOL C-4212F (PRESS)
2 - SPECIAL TOOL 9302-1 (DRIVER)
3 - BUSHING
4 - SPECIAL TOOL 9302-2 (SIZER CUP)
5 - LOWER CONTROL ARM
6 - SPECIAL TOOL 9302-4 (RECEIVER CUP)
Fig. 3 MEASURING & ADJUSTING WHEEL BEARING
1 - WHEEL HUB
2 - LOCKING SCREW
3 - DIAL INDICATOR
2 - 4 FRONTVA

(11) Separate the lower ball joint from the knuckle
using special tool 9282.
(12) Remove the lower control arm nuts and bolts
from the frame.
(13) Remove the lower control arm from the frame
(Fig. 9).
NOTE: To avoid damaging the transverse leaf
spring, cushion the pad on the jack accordingly.
(14) Support the transverse leaf spring in the cen-
ter with a jack.
(15) Remove the left and right spring clamp plates
(Refer to 2 - SUSPENSION/FRONT/SPRING CLAMP
PLATES - REMOVAL) (Fig. 9).
NOTE: The upper spring blocks between the engine
cradle and the spring are color coded, Make sure
not to mix the blocks per sides. The blocks are dif-
ferent in sizes to accommodate the weight of the
vehicle and driver in order for the vehicle to sit
level.
(16) Lower the jack and remove the transverse leaf
spring towards the side.INSTALLATION
NOTE: To avoid damaging the transverse leaf
spring, cushion the pad on the jack accordingly.
NOTE: Hand tighten all bolts until vehicle is on the
ground, unless the bushings may become distorted.
NOTE: The height blocks between the engine cradle
and the spring are color coded, Make sure not to
mix the blocks per sides. The blocks are different in
sizes to accommodate the weight of the vehicle and
driver in order for the vehicle to sit level.
(1) Install the transverse leaf spring in the center
with a jack with all the rubber mounts attached.
(2) Install the lower control arm to the frame (Fig.
9).
(3) Install the knuckle on the lower ball joint.
(4) Raise the lower control arm approximately 10
mm with a jack.
(5) Install both stop plate bolts to the lower control
arm
(6) Install the strut bolts to the steering knuckle.
(7) Reinstall the tie rod to the steering knuckle
(Fig. 9). Tighten to 150 N´m (110 ft. lbs.).
(8) Install the ABS sensor all the way into the
steering knuckle, the sensor will adjust automatically
when the vehicle is moved (Fig. 9).
(9) Install the disc brake caliper adapter (Fig. 9).
Tighten to 170 N´m (125 ft. lbs.).
(10) Install the front wheels.
(11) Lower the vehicle.
(12) Install the spring clamp plates (Fig. 9).
Tighten (M-10 bolts) to 65 N´m (48 ft. lbs.) (M-12
bolts) to 130 N´m (96 ft. lbs.).
(13) Roll the vehicle approximately 1 mm forwards
and the backwards, and rock firmly.
(14) Tighten the nuts on the lower control arm to
the frame to 150 N´m (110 ft. lbs.).
(15) Apply brake to actuate brake pressure.
SPRING CLAMP PLATES
REMOVAL
(1) Raise and support the vehicle.
(2) Install a jack under the lower ball joint and
lower the weight of the vehicle enough to allow a
wrench between the lower control arm and the
bracket tighten the nut.
(3) Remove the front and rear bolts to the spring
clamp plates.
(4) Remove the four inner retaining bolts and
nuts.
Fig. 9 FRONT SPRING
1 - NUT
2 - STRUT
3 - STOP PLATE
4 - STOP PLATE BOLT
5 - CALIPER ADAPTER BOLT
6 - DISC BRAKE CALIPER
7 - OUTER TIE ROD END NUT
8 - ABS SENSOR
9 - SPEED SENSOR
10 - LOWER CONTROL ARM RETAINING NUTS
11 - OUTER TIE ROD END
12 - RUBBER SPRING MOUNT
13 - SHEAR BUSHING
14 - SPRING CLAMP PLATE BOLT
15 - SPRING CLAMP PLATE
16 - LOWER RUBBER SPRING MOUNT
17 - SPRING
18 - STRUT BOLTS
19 - LOWER CONTROL ARM BOLTS
2 - 8 FRONTVA

WHEEL ALIGNMENT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
DESCRIPTION........................17
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - PRE-ALIGNMENT
INSPECTION.........................17STANDARD PROCEDURE - TOE
ADJUSTMENT........................18
SPECIFICATIONS.....................19
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
DESCRIPTION
NOTE: Camber and Caster are not adjustable on
this vehicle. (TOE ONLY).
NOTE: Suspension components with rubber/ure-
thane bushings should be tightened with the vehi-
cle at normal ride height. It is important to have the
springs supporting the weight of the vehicle when
the fasteners are torqued. If springs are not at their
normal ride position, vehicle ride comfort could be
affected and premature bushing wear may occur.
Wheel alignment involves the correct positioning of
the wheels in relation to the vehicle. The positioning
is accomplished through suspension and steering
linkage adjustments. An alignment is considered
essential for efficient steering, good directional stabil-
ity and to minimize tire wear. The most important
measurements of an alignment are caster, camber
and toe (Fig. 1).
CAUTION: Never attempt to modify suspension or
steering components by heating or bending.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - PRE - ALIGNMENT
INSPECTION
Before starting wheel alignment, the following
inspection and necessary corrections must be com-
pleted. Refer to Suspension and Steering System
Diagnosis Chart below for additional information.
(1) Inspect tires for size, air pressure and tread
wear.
(2) Inspect front wheel bearings for wear.
(3) Inspect front wheels for excessive radial or lat-
eral runout and balance.
(4) Inspect ball studs, linkage pivot points and
steering gear for looseness, roughness or binding.
(5) Inspect suspension components for wear and
noise.
(6) Road test the vehicle.
Fig. 1 Wheel Alignment Measurements
1 - FRONT OF VEHICLE
2 - STEERING AXIS INCLINATION
3 - PIVOT POINT
4 - TOE-IN
VAWHEEL ALIGNMENT 2 - 17

BRAKE LINES
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - ISO FLARING
A preformed metal brake tube is recommended and
preferred for all repairs. However, double-wall steel
tube can be used for emergency repair when factory
replacement parts are not readily available.
To make a ISO flare use an ISO flaring tool kit.
(1) Cut off damaged tube with Tubing Cutter.
(2) Remove any burrs from the inside of the tube.
(3) Install tube nut on the tube.
(4) Position the tube in the flaring tool flush with
the top of the tool bar (Fig. 2). Then tighten the tool
bar on the tube.
(5) Install the correct size adaptor on the flaring
tool yoke screw.
(6) Lubricate the adaptor.
(7) Align the adaptor and yoke screw over the tube
(Fig. 2).
(8) Turn the yoke screw in until the adaptor is
squarely seated on the tool bar.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - DOUBLE INVERTED
FLARING
A preformed metal brake tube is recommended and
preferred for all repairs. However, double-wall steeltube can be used for emergency repair when factory
replacement parts are not readily available.
(1) Cut off damaged tube with Tubing Cutter.
(2) Ream cut edges of tubing to ensure proper
flare.
(3) Install replacement tube nut on the tube.
(4) Insert tube in flaring tool.
(5) Place gauge form over the end of the tube.
(6) Push tubing through flaring tool jaws until
tube contacts recessed notch in gauge that matches
tube diameter.
(7) Tighten the tool bar on the tube
(8) Insert plug on gauge in the tube. Then swing
compression disc over gauge and center tapered flar-
ing screw in recess of compression disc (Fig. 3).
(9) Tighten tool handle until plug gauge is
squarely seated on jaws of flaring tool. This will start
the inverted flare.
(10) Remove the plug gauge and complete the
inverted flare.
BRAKE PADS / SHOES
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - FRONT (SRW)
(1) Unscrew the cap from the brake fluid reservoir.
(2) Raise and support the vehicle.
(3) Remove the front wheels (Refer to 22 - TIRES/
WHEELS/WHEELS - REMOVAL).
(4) Remove the wear indicator cable and the wear
indicator (Fig. 4).
Fig. 2 ISO Flaring
1 - ADAPTER
2 - LUBRICATE HERE
3 - PILOT
4 - FLUSH WITH BAR
5 - TUBING
6 - BAR ASSEMBLY
Fig. 3 Inverted Flare Tools
5 - 8 BRAKES - BASEVA

STEERING NOISE
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
OBJECTIONAL HISS OR
WHISTLE1. Steering intermediate shaft to dash
panel seal.1. Check and repair seal at dash
panel.
2. Noisy valve in power steering gear. 2. Replace steering gear.
RATTLE OR CLUNK 1. Gear mounting bolts loose. 1. Tighten bolts to specification.
2. Loose or damaged suspension compo-
nents.2. Inspect and repair suspension.
3. Internal gear noise. 3. Replace steering gear.
4. Pressure hose in contact with other
components.4. Reposition hose.
5. Loose or damaged intermediate shaft or
column.5. Inspect and repair or replace.
CHIRP OR SQUEAL 1. Loose belt. 1. Adjust or replace.
WHINE OR GROWL 1. Low fluid level. 1. Fill to proper level.
2. Pressure hose in contact with other
components.2. Reposition hose.
3. Internal pump noise. 3. Replace pump.
4. Air in fluid 4. Check for lekas, Evacuate air
from P/S system.
SUCKING AIR SOUND 1. Loose return line clamp. 1. Replace clamp.
2. O-ring missing or damaged on hose
fitting.2. Replace o-ring.
3. Low fluid level. 3. Fill to proper level.
4. Air leak between pump and reservoir. 4. Repair as necessary.
5. Reservoir cap not installed correctly. 5. Install reservoir cap correctly.
SCRUBBING OR KNOCK-
ING1. Wrong tire size. 1. Verify tire size.
BINDING AND STICKING
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
DIFFICULT TO TURN WHEEL
STICKS OR BINDS1. Low fluid level. 1. Fill to proper level.
2. Tire pressure. 2. Adjust tire pressure.
3. Steering components (ball joints/
tie rod ends).3 Inspect and repair as necessary.
4. Loose belt. 4. Adjust or replace.
5. Low pump pressure. 5. Pressure test and replace if nec-
essary.
6. Column shaft coupler binding. 6. Replace coupler.
7. Steering gear worn. 7. Replace gear.
8. Pump seized / Stuck valve 8. Replace pump.
19 - 2 STEERINGVA

CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
HARD 3-2 DOWNSHIFT
WHEN DECELERATION
EVEN AFTER READAP-
TION1. K3 Idles. 1. Install TCM And/Or Electro-
hydraulic Control Unit.
NO RESP. DELAYED UP-
SHIFT, NO DTC1. Different Tire Sizes Are Mounted
On The Front Axle.1. Mount Uniform Tire Sizes
On The Front Axle.
NO UPSHIFT 3-4, 4-5 AF-
TER FAST OFF (ACCEL-
ERATOR)1. Upshift Prevention To Realize Dy-
namical Drivestyle.1. Instruct Customer.
NO UPSHIFT OF 1ST
GEAR BELOW 5000 RPM1. Gear Recognition Switch. 1. Replace Gear Recognition
Switch.
NO UPSHIFT INTO 5TH
GEAR WHEN FULL
THROTTLE OR KICK
DOWN ACTIVATION1. The Upshift 4-5 At Full Throttle or
Kick Down Never Occurs Until
Reaching Cut Off Speed. Under
These Conditions, The High Pow-
ered Vehicle Will Never Shift Into
5th Gear Below 250 km/h.1. Instruct Customer.
NO KICK DOWN SHIFT-
ING1. Accelerator Pedal Value < 95%. 1. Check Engine Control. Ad-
just As Necessary.
Engine Turns Up While 2-3
Upshift and/or Hard 3-2
Downshift1. Oil Level Too Low. 1. Check Oil Level. Add if Nec-
essary.
2. Oil Filter Not Installed. 2. Install Oil Filter.
3. Free Wheeling Clutch F2 Defec-
tive.3. Replace Free Wheeling
Clutch F2, Hollow Shaft, and
Rear Sun Gear/Inner Disc Car-
rier K3.
GRABBING 2-3 COAST-
ING UPSHIFT AND/OR
BRAKE DOWNSHIFT1. Oil Level Too Low. 1. Check Oil Level. Add if Nec-
essary.
2. Oil Filter Not Installed. 2. Install Oil Filter.
3. Control shift or Command Valve
Blocked.3. Check Each Slide Valve For
Base Position and Ease Of
Movement, Remove Particle.
4. K3 Disc Burnt, Hot Spots or
Rubbed Down.4. Replace Inner and Outer
Disc Carrier K3 And Control
Valve.
DELAYED ENGAGEMENT,
NO TRANSFER OF POW-
ER IN R AND/OR D, ALSO
AT TIMES1. Oil Level Too Low. 1. Check Oil Level. Add if Nec-
essary.
2. Recognition Switch - Selector Le-
ver Position.2. Replace Recognition Switch
Only When Intermediate Posi-
tion or Fault is Indicated.
3. Oil Filter Not Installed. 3. Install Oil Filter.
4. AEV, Delayed Pressure Build Up
On Piston B2/B3.4. Install New Shifting Proce-
dure (TCM, electrohydraulic
control unit or repair set).
5. Wrong Combination TCM/Electro-
hydraulic Control Unit.5. Check Combination TCM/
Electrohydraulic Control Unit.
Replace TCM Resp. Electrohy-
draulic Control Unit, if neces-
sary.
VAAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NAG1 - SERVICE INFORMATION 21 - 41

SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE CHART
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
DESCRIPTION N´m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
3500 Series 190 +10 140 +10 ±
2500 Series 240 +10 177 +10 ±
TIRES
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION - TIRES
Tires are designed and engineered for each specific
vehicle. They provide the best overall performance
for normal operation. The ride and handling charac-
teristics match the vehicle's requirements. With
proper care they will give excellent reliability, trac-
tion, skid resistance, and tread life.
Driving habits have more effect on tire life than
any other factor. Careful drivers will obtain in most
cases, much greater mileage than severe use or care-
less drivers. A few of the driving habits which will
shorten the life of any tire are:
²Rapid acceleration
²Severe brake applications
²High speed driving
²Excessive speeds on turns
²Striking curbs and other obstacles
Radial-ply tires are more prone to irregular tread
wear. It is important to follow the tire rotation inter-
val shown in the section on Tire Rotation, (Refer to
22 - TIRES/WHEELS - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
This will help to achieve a greater tread life.
TIRE IDENTIFICATION
Tire type, size, aspect ratio and speed rating are
encoded in the letters and numbers imprinted on the
side wall of the tire. Refer to the chart to decipher
the tire identification code (Fig. 11).
Performance tires have a speed rating letter after
the aspect ratio number. The speed rating is not
always printed on the tire sidewall. These ratings
are:
²Qup to 100 mph
²Rup to 106 mph
²Sup to 112 mph
²Tup to 118 mph
²Uup to 124 mph²Hup to 130 mph
²Vup to 149 mph
²Zmore than 149 mph (consult the tire manu-
facturer for the specific speed rating)
An All Season type tire will have eitherM+S,M
&SorM±S(indicating mud and snow traction)
imprinted on the side wall.
TIRE CHAINS
Tire snow chains may be used oncertainmodels.
Refer to the Owner's Manual for more information.
DESCRIPTION - RADIAL ± PLY TIRES
Radial-ply tires improve handling, tread life and
ride quality, and decrease rolling resistance.
Fig. 11 Tire Identification
VATIRES/WHEELS 22 - 7

Radial-ply tires must always be used in sets of
four. Under no circumstances should they be used on
the front only. They may be mixed with temporary
spare tires when necessary. A maximum speed of 50
MPH is recommended while a temporary spare is in
use.
Radial-ply tires have the same load-carrying capac-
ity as other types of tires of the same size. They also
use the same recommended inflation pressures.
The use of oversized tires, either in the front or
rear of the vehicle, can cause vehicle drive train fail-
ure. This could also cause inaccurate wheel speed
signals when the vehicle is equipped with Anti-Lock
Brakes.
The use of tires from different manufactures on the
same vehicle is NOT recommended. The proper tire
pressure should be maintained on all four tires.
DESCRIPTION - TIRE PRESSURE FOR HIGH
SPEEDS
Where speed limits allow the vehicle to be driven
at high speeds, correct tire inflation pressure is very
important. For speeds up to and including 120 km/h
(75 mph), tires must be inflated to the pressures
shown on the tire placard. For continuous speeds in
excess of 120 km/h (75 mph), tires must be inflated
to the maximum pressure specified on the tire side-
wall.
Vehicles loaded to the maximum capacity should
not be driven at continuous speeds above 75 mph
(120 km/h).
For emergency vehicles that are driven at speeds
over 90 mph (144 km/h), special high speed tires
must be used. Consult tire manufacturer for correct
inflation pressure recommendations.
DESCRIPTION - REPLACEMENT TIRES
The original equipment tires provide a proper bal-
ance of many characteristics such as:
²Ride
²Noise
²Handling
²Durability
²Tread life
²Traction
²Rolling resistance
²Speed capability
It is recommended that tires equivalent to the orig-
inal equipment tires be used when replacement is
needed.
Failure to use equivalent replacement tires may
adversely affect the safety and handling of the vehi-
cle.The use of oversize tires may cause interference
with vehicle components. Under extremes of suspen-
sion and steering travel, interference with vehicle
components may cause tire damage.
WARNING: FAILURE TO EQUIP THE VEHICLE WITH
TIRES HAVING ADEQUATE SPEED CAPABILITY
CAN RESULT IN SUDDEN TIRE FAILURE.
DESCRIPTION - TIRE INFLATION PRESSURES
Under inflation will cause rapid shoulder wear, tire
flexing, and possible tire failure (Fig. 12).
Over inflation will cause rapid center wear and
loss of the tire's ability to cushion shocks (Fig. 13).
Improper inflation can cause:
²Uneven wear patterns
²Reduced tread life
²Reduced fuel economy
²Unsatisfactory ride
Fig. 12 Under Inflation Wear
1 - THIN TIRE THREAD AREAS
Fig. 13 Over Inflation Wear
1 - THIN TIRE THREAD AREA
22 - 8 TIRES/WHEELSVA

²Vehicle drift
For proper tire pressure specification refer to the
Tire Inflation Pressure Chart provided with the vehi-
cles Owners Manual. A Certification Label on the
drivers side door pillar provides the minimum tire
and rim size for the vehicle. The label also list the
cold inflation pressure for these tires at full load
operation
Tire pressures have been chosen to provide safe
operation, vehicle stability, and a smooth ride. Tire
pressure should be checked cold once a month. Tire
pressure decreases as the ambient temperature
drops. Check tire pressure frequently when ambient
temperature varies widely.
Tire inflation pressures are cold inflation pressure.
The vehicle must sit for at least 3 hours to obtain the
correct cold inflation pressure reading. Or be driven
less than one mile after sitting for 3 hours. Tire
inflation pressures may increase from 2 to 6 pounds
per square inch (psi) during operation. Do not reduce
this normal pressure build-up.
WARNING: OVER OR UNDER INFLATED TIRES CAN
AFFECT VEHICLE HANDLING AND TREAD WEAR.
THIS MAY CAUSE THE TIRE TO FAIL SUDDENLY,
RESULTING IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - PRESSURE
GAUGES
A quality air pressure gauge is recommended to
check tire pressure. After checking the air pressure,
replace valve cap finger tight.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TIRE NOISE OR
VIBRATION
Radial-ply tires are sensitive to force impulses
caused by improper mounting, vibration, wheel
defects, or possibly tire imbalance.
To find out if tires are causing the noise or vibra-
tion, drive the vehicle over a smooth road at varying
speeds. Note the noise level during acceleration and
deceleration. The engine, differential and exhaust
noises will change as speed varies, while the tire
noise will usually remain constant.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TREAD WEAR
INDICATORS
Tread wear indicators are molded into the bottom
of the tread grooves. When tread depth is 1.6 mm
(1/16 in.), the tread wear indicators will appear as a
13 mm (1/2 in.) band (Fig. 14).Tire replacement is necessary when indicators
appear in two or more grooves or if localized balding
occurs.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TIRE WEAR PAT-
TERNS
Under inflation will cause wear on the shoulders of
tire. Over inflation will cause wear at the center of
tire.
Excessive camber causes the tire to run at an
angle to the road. One side of tread is then worn
more than the other (Fig. 15).
Excessive toe-in or toe-out causes wear on the
tread edges and a feathered effect across the tread
(Fig. 15).
Fig. 14 Tread Wear Indicators
1 - TREAD ACCEPTABLE
2 - TREAD UNACCEPTABLE
3 - WEAR INDICATOR
VATIRES/WHEELS 22 - 9

will remain stationary during the repair. Misalign-
ment can cause stress in the repair areas and can
result in future failure.
VISUAL INSPECTION
Composite materials can mask the severity of an
accident. Adhesive bond lines, interior structure of
the doors, and steel structures need to be inspected
carefully to get a true damage assessment. Close
inspection may require partial removal of interior
trim or inner panels.
Identify the type of repair: Puncture or Crack -
Damage that has penetrated completely through the
panel. Damage is confined to one general area; a
panel section is not required. However, a backer
panel, open fiberglass tape, or matted material must
be bonded from behind (Fig. 7) (Fig. 6).
PANEL SURFACE PREPARATION
If a body panel has been punctured, cracked, or
crushed, the damaged area must be removed from
the panel to achieve a successful repair. All spider
web cracks leading away from a damaged area must
be stopped or removed. To stop a running crack in a
panel, drilla6mm(0.250 in.) hole at the end of the
crack farthest away from the damage. If spider web
cracks can not be stopped, the panel would require
replacement. The surfaces around the damaged area
should be stripped of paint and freed from wax andoil. Scuff surfaces around repair area with 360 grit
wet/dry sandpaper, or equivalent, to assure adhesion
of repair materials.
PATCHING PANELS
An panel that has extensive puncture type damage
can be repaired by cutting out the damaged material
(Fig. 7). Use a suitable reciprocating saw or cut off
wheel to remove the section of the panel that is dam-
aged. The piece cut out can be used as a template to
shape the new patch. It is not necessary to have
access to the back of the panel to install a patch.
Bevel edges of cutout at 20 degrees to expose a larger
bonding area on the outer side. This will allow for an
increased reinforcement areas.
PANEL PATCH FABRICATIONS
A patch can be fabricated from any rigid fiberglass
panel that has comparable contour with the repair
area. Lift gates and fenders can be used to supply
patch material. If existing material is not available
or compatible, a patch can be constructed with adhe-
sive and reinforcement mesh (dry wall tape). Perform
the following operation if required:
(1) Cover waxed paper or plastic with adhesive
backed nylon mesh (dry wall tape) larger than the
patch required (Fig. 8).
(2) Tape waxed paper or plastic sheet with mesh to
a surface that has a compatible contour to the repair
area.
(3) Apply a liberal coat of adhesive over the rein-
forcement mesh (Fig. 8). If necessary apply a second
or third coat of adhesive and mesh after firs coat has
cured. The thickness of the patch should be the same
as the repair area.
(4) After patch has cured, peel waxed paper or
plastic from the back of the patch.
Fig. 5 FIBERGLASS TAPE
Fig. 6 DAMAGE COMPONENT
1 - PUNCTURE
Fig. 7 DAMAGED PANEL CUTOUT AND PATCH
1 - CUTOUT
2 - DAMAGED BODY PANEL
3-4MM(0.160 IN.) HOLES
4 - PATCH CUT TO SIZE
VABODY 23 - 7