Exterior Moulding / Trim: Service and Repair

Molding Repair

Adhesive Body Side Moldings

The body side moldings, emblems and name plates are attached to the body panels with adhesive tape. To insure a good replacement of new or old moldings, emblems, and name plates, the panel surface should be warm 21-32°C (70-90°F), clean, and free of any wax or oily film. Methods are listed to attach loose molding ends, completely removed moldings and replacement moldings, emblems, and name plates.


Adhesive Body Side Moldings End Loose

1. Wash the affected area with soap and water and wipe dry. Wipe the panel and the adhesive side of the molding with a clean rag using oil-free naphtha or alcohol.
2. If needed, apply a length of masking tape as a molding guide. A straightedge may also be used.
3. Apply the adhesive to the back of the molding and press in place. If the adhesive GM P/N 1052621 or equivalent is used, apply constant pressure to the molding for 30 seconds or until a firm bond has been made.



Adhesive Body Side Molding Completely Removed

Tools Required

J 25070 Heat Gun






Important: This procedure is for moldings that have not been damaged. Do not use this procedure if the molding is dented or was pried from the body.


1. Remove all adhesive from the body panel and the back of the molding using 3M(TM) Scotch Brite molding adhesive remover disk 3M(TM) P/N 07502 or equivalent.
2. Wash the affected panel area with soap and water and wipe dry.
3. Remove all traces of adhesive from the body panel and the back of the molding using Varnish Makers and Painters (VM&P) naphtha.
4. Mark the proper position of the molding with a length of masking tape. Use adjacent moldings as a guide.
5. Warm the body panel with the J 25070 to a minimum of 21°C (70°F).




6. Apply a piece of double-coated foam tape 3M(TM) P/N 06382 Gray or equivalent to the molding.
7. Align the molding to the tape guideline on the body panel.
8. Peel the backing from the end of the molding.
9. Press firmly into place while continuing to remove the backing.
10. Hand roll the molding to the body to ensure proper adhesion.