TSB 23-68-97

Water leaking into vehicle through side cowl panel.

Visit Geno's Garage for Truck accessories.

Models: 1998 BR/BE

• THIS APPLIES TO ABOUT 14,000 VEHICLES BUILT BETWEEN NOV. 16, 1997 (MDH 1116xx) AND NOV 26, 1997  (MDH 1116xx). (check your MDH sticker on the driver door jamb)

Symptoms:

water leaks through either side cowl panels and dampens the carpet in the footwell area.

Diagnosis:

1. open the right door and remove the right side door sill trim cover (that's the long cover about 4" wide - hold the two long sides with thumb and fingers and pull UP)
2. grasp the center upper edge of the cowl trim cover and pull outward allowing the cowl trim cover to bow in the center and releasing the trim cover retaining tab. (Figure 1)
• 
3. separate the cowl trim cover from the lower cowl.  You should see the metal of the lower cowl.
4. inspect the cowl panel in the area shown in figure 2  and look for an open 6.6mm(0.26in) hole (this was to be used for the grounds for the right side instrument panel, but a production change left it out before the punch press could be changed.)
• 
5. repeat the same on the left side
6. if there is an open hole, perform the following procedure:

Parts:

1    55275444aa        butyl patch

Repair:

Install a butyl patch over the hole in the cowl panel.

1. Clean the area on both sides with a mild detergent and dry thoroughly.
2. Remove patch backing and press a patch into place on each side.
3. Position the right cowl trim cover onto the lower cowl and press the cover into place.
4. Install the right front door sill trim cover onto the sill.
5. Position the left cowl trim cover onto the lower cowl and press the cover into place.
6. Install the left front door sill trim cover onto the sill.

note:

If you are in warranty, the dealer does it for free.  If not, you can do it yourself for almost free. CHECK YOUR CARPET, it takes forever to dry and will mildew if left wet in hot weather.