Durango-nology
A compendium of information about the Dodge Durango.
Home
The Garage

About Me
Photo Gallery




Last Updated: 9/23/2010

Durango-nology Index

Intro

Categories:
Overview
Engines
Drivetrain
Electrical
Safety
Security
Interior
Exterior

Recalls
Economy

Stock Photos
Wallpaper

Banner

Body Exterior And Systems
Body Panels
Click on the above links to view the available information on the specific sub category

Front-End Body Panels
Inner and outer body panels from the windshield opening forward are shared with the Dakota. All other panels are new to meet quality, appearance and functional requirements.

Outer panels are designed to resist denting in parking lot and cargo loading situations. Panel surface design, appropriate material thickness, reinforcements and metallurgy, such as the medium-strength steel door outer panels, are used as required to meet these requirements.
All body opening gaps are 0.18 inch. (4.5 mm), the same as Dakota.

Inner and outer front body panels are shared with Dakota. The clamshell hood with attached grille opens on counterbalanced hinges. The counterbalance mechanism replaces a prop rod to hold the hood open. The hinge design provides a minimum of 6 feet (1.95 m) of clearance beneath the grille with the hood fully open. Each hinge uses a four-bar linkage to guide the hood. A spiral spring, which bears against a fifth link in the mechanism, counterbalances the hood. Hood hinges and front sheet metal are designed to maintain hood stability when driving on rough roads.

The hood and fenders are designed to resist denting. Hood formations and a structural inner panel contribute to dent resistance. Fender attachment at the door opening has three bolts for stiffness and durability.



Help to fight Cancer!
The donation you make today will help to make a difference in the quality of life of those battling with leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma like me. Thanks!
Support cancer research through a donation.
Click here

Contact Me
If you would like to email me or leave feedback about the SnowDigger website please Click here Thanks!
Full-coverage molded plastic front wheelhouse liners, protect the fenders and inner panels from stone damage and road splash. They also help block the sound of road noise and road splash from reaching the cab.

The radiator closure includes hydroformed upper and lower crossbars that contribute to structural stiffness, reduce weight, simplify assembly and facilitate engine removal for service. The crossbar tubes, which are formed to the desired shape in an external die by high-pressure water, were designed to provide the functions of welded assemblies of several parts. The upper crossbar is bolted in place for easy removal to facilitate engine removal for service, if needed.

Laser-welded sheet metal blanks for the front fender inner panels provide added stiffness, reduced weight and increased dimensional accuracy compared to a conventional welded assembly. The laser smoothly and precisely butt-welds two pieces of sheet metal having significantly different thickness. Added thickness provides needed local strength and stiffness more efficiently than an attached reinforcement.

An open plenum ahead of the windshield delivers intake air for the heating, ventilating and air conditioning system. It also houses the windshield wiper system.










Unauthorized use of any materials presented here is prohibited. Copying or reproducing any elements from this page other than for personal use is not permitted. Concept, Designs, Artwork, including the contents of the website such as images created by or for SnowDigger and it's text are ©2010 SnowDigger.com. All Rights Reserved. The logos presented on this site are trademarks of their respective owners. SnowDigger.com is just a fan site, I am in no way affiliated or endorsed by Chrysler, Dodge, or anyone connected with them.