Net, Form And Pierce Repair
Failure to follow these recommendations could result in damage or failure to the part and the related parts.
Net, form and pierce is a manufacturing process which takes place during the original build of the vehicle. The original part will have a beveled platform that will decrease toward the fastener location mounting hole. Replacement parts in these areas may not include bevel (form) or fastener hole (pierce) and will need to be adapted for proper fit and finish.
The primary locations which may utilize net, form and pierce are:
- Fender reinforcement (at front end module mount)
- Fender tower mounts
- Hood hinge (lower half)
- Rear body header (liftgate hinge mounts)
- Strut tower (at upper control arm mount)
Shock tower is net, pierce only.
The thickness of shims is not to exceed the original thickness of the factory bevel. If more shims are needed damage is still present and must be repaired properly.
If the replacement part did not come with a fastener hole, one of equal size and location will have to be drilled. Body shims should be used in the fender reinforcement to front end module. The hood hinge area, fender tower mounts, and rear body header will utilize washers as spacers where a specific spacer does not exist. The shims and spacers should be sealed between each other and to the stationary surface. Care should be taken when smoothing sealer around washers to give an undetectable repair. Refinish the repair area per the paint manufacturer's recommendations for corrosion resistance and appearance purposes.