Can not find where piece of paneling goes

[mikeden]

Hi everyone,
A few weeks ago my 2000 3.4L Alero was leaking anti freeze. I pulled some panelling off of the bottom of the vehicle to see where the leak was coming from. I replaced the water pump, which did fix the problem. I did not have time to replace the panelling when I was done. This morning I tried replacing the paneling. I got most of it back in place but one piece does not seem to be fitting in anywhere, yet I know it has to protect water from getting into the right-front of the car. I have attached 2 pictures of this piece. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

[BNaylor]

Welcome to AF.

That piece is the plastic splash guard that goes to the front right (passenger) side of the front clip towards the body of the car (inner fender/apron). It prevents water from getting into the right side of the engine compartment. Parts of it fastens to the subframe assembly (engine/tranny cradle) and the big hole you see is the cutout for the receiver-drier unit lines for the air conditioner.

[mikeden]

Hi,
Thanks for your help. I just can't find a way to position it correctly so it fits in....in order to install this panel, the 3 fingers that stick out, do they get installed top, bottom, front, back? I know the vicinity where it goes in...I spent over 2 hours trying to manipulate this piece in which direction is goes in and I just got too frustrated....all I need is a hint.

[BNaylor]

The 3 fingers go to the top and will fasten to the the inner fender/apron with those push pin clips. The bottom part will fasten directly to the subframe. Where the cutout and hole is that will slide over the receiver-drier A/C lines. This piece has to be installed before that front plastic splash guard at the front of the wheel well that fastens to the plastic bumper cover.

Your pic #1 shows the proper orientation.

[mikeden]

Thanks again for your help I really appreciate it.