Chevrolet Equinox Service Manual: #05-08-51-001F: Information on Paint Stain Under Protective Shipping Film - (Oct 22, 2013) Emblems/Decals/Paint

Subject:	Information on Paint Stain Under Protective Shipping Film
Models:	2014 and Prior GM Cars and Trucks

This bulletin has been revised to add the 2014 model year and update the Labor Operationto the Global Labor Code (GLC). Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 05-08-51-001E.

Dealers may notice what they perceive to be paint staining when the protective shippingfilm is removed from these vehicles. This “stain” has the appearance of patches of“milkiness” in the paint. This affects metallic paints and is particularly noticeableon silver-colored vehicles.

This “stain” condition is caused by condensation, which tends to form under the shippingfilm while the vehicle is in transit to the dealer. It will disappear after the vehicleis exposed to direct sunlight. Application of heat from heat lamps or similar deviceswill accelerate this process as well.

The reason for the recent increase of such incidents is because of styling revisionsto the vehicle, which have resulted in air pockets under the film.

Important:DO NOT ATTEMPT TO POLISH OR RE-SPRAY THE VEHICLE FOR THIS CONDITION.

The preferred process for correcting this condition is exposure to direct sunlight.Park the vehicle with the affected area exposed to the direct sunlight. The “stain”will generally disappear within 2-3 hours. In more severe cases, the vehicle may needto be left in an area exposed to direct sunlight for up to three days.

If a rapid correction is desired, or weather conditions are unsuitable for exposureto sunlight, application of a heat gun is acceptable. Follow the steps below if usingthis method:

Ensure that the plastic components, such as grilles, badges, wiring harness, etc.,under the affected panel are protected from the heat application by masking or byplacing a cardboard sheet between the area of heat application and the componentsbeing protected.Wipe the area with isopropyl alcohol.Place the heat gun approximately 76-101♦mm (3-4♦in) away from the area.

Important:Ensure that the panel temperature does not exceed 130°C (266°F) at any time.

Heat the stained area to between 93°C and 104°C (200°F and 220°F). While heating thepanel, use a non-contact or infrared thermometer to check the surface temperature.After the stain is removed, let the panel air cool to avoid warping.Warranty Information

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:

Labor Operation

Description

Labor Time

1480128*	Paint Stain Removal	0.5 hr
*This is a unique labor operation for bulletin use only. It will not be publishedin the Labor Time Guide.

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians,NOT a "do-it-yourselfer".  They are written to inform thesetechnicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or toprovide information that could assist in the proper service of avehicle.  Properly trained technicians have the equipment,tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly andsafely.  If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that thebulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will havethat condition.  See your GM dealer for information on whetheryour vehicle may benefit from the information.

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