andrewawright
06-07-2009, 07:33 PM
I'd read on here that some people are interested in modifying their lower valance on the back bumper yet there was no guide. Well I did mine today so thought I'd take a couple of pics and put a little help together for those wanting to do similar.
To do this you'll need:
- T20 torx screwdriver
- Flat head screwdriver
- Stanley Knife
- Bank Card
- 1m x 20cm vinyl (Available from all good sign writers at very cheap prices)
So the part I'm talking about is removed in the image below. Also highlighted are where the mounts are.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n174/andy-wright88/My%20Cars/C2/060720090371.jpg
To remove this valance, get underneath your car and you'll see two torx screws, using the T20 screwdriver whip these out. At either end of the valance there are some plastic arrow shaped clips which just turn slightly. Now you need to locate the plastic clips and from the outside of your bumper (now looking at the back of your car) use the small flat head screwdriver to pop these out of place. Dont worry about breaking them, they're fairly robust. Now it will just pull off! Nice and easy.
Before attempting to apply anything to paint work always wipe the area clean. I used a quick spray of window cleaner and a microfibre cloth and made sure it was dry afterwards.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n174/andy-wright88/My%20Cars/C2/06072009038.jpg
Now is he tricky part that requires patience! If you have ever done your own window tints (successfully!) or trimmed a boot build yourself then it's just the same with the vinyl. If not however, here's a few helpful tips:
- Start at the end without the exhuast cut out, this is just easier for the line at which the vinyl sticks.
- With the valance being curved, the vinyl will go off at a diagnal, this is why you need 20cm when really the valance is approx. 10cm
- You are only concentrating on the valance front when applying the vinyl, everything can be cut away so dont worry about it.
- Apply by pealing the backing away and running your finger or thumb tightly along it to ensure no air bubbles. Most vinyls won't damage paint when pulled away if done carefully so don't be afraid to make mistakes.
- Use your bank card if needed to smooth out air bubbles.
So now you should be left with a valance that's outside is smoothly covered is vinyl but has a mass of stuck together, creased and crappy vinyl around it. Carefully cut these bits away using the knife and tuck the rest around making sure the clips are vinyl free!
VOILA! One, in my case, black valance.
Reapply and admire!
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n174/andy-wright88/My%20Cars/C2/06072009039.jpg
I do not accept any resposiblity for this, but I am more than happy help if you have any questions.
To do this you'll need:
- T20 torx screwdriver
- Flat head screwdriver
- Stanley Knife
- Bank Card
- 1m x 20cm vinyl (Available from all good sign writers at very cheap prices)
So the part I'm talking about is removed in the image below. Also highlighted are where the mounts are.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n174/andy-wright88/My%20Cars/C2/060720090371.jpg
To remove this valance, get underneath your car and you'll see two torx screws, using the T20 screwdriver whip these out. At either end of the valance there are some plastic arrow shaped clips which just turn slightly. Now you need to locate the plastic clips and from the outside of your bumper (now looking at the back of your car) use the small flat head screwdriver to pop these out of place. Dont worry about breaking them, they're fairly robust. Now it will just pull off! Nice and easy.
Before attempting to apply anything to paint work always wipe the area clean. I used a quick spray of window cleaner and a microfibre cloth and made sure it was dry afterwards.
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n174/andy-wright88/My%20Cars/C2/06072009038.jpg
Now is he tricky part that requires patience! If you have ever done your own window tints (successfully!) or trimmed a boot build yourself then it's just the same with the vinyl. If not however, here's a few helpful tips:
- Start at the end without the exhuast cut out, this is just easier for the line at which the vinyl sticks.
- With the valance being curved, the vinyl will go off at a diagnal, this is why you need 20cm when really the valance is approx. 10cm
- You are only concentrating on the valance front when applying the vinyl, everything can be cut away so dont worry about it.
- Apply by pealing the backing away and running your finger or thumb tightly along it to ensure no air bubbles. Most vinyls won't damage paint when pulled away if done carefully so don't be afraid to make mistakes.
- Use your bank card if needed to smooth out air bubbles.
So now you should be left with a valance that's outside is smoothly covered is vinyl but has a mass of stuck together, creased and crappy vinyl around it. Carefully cut these bits away using the knife and tuck the rest around making sure the clips are vinyl free!
VOILA! One, in my case, black valance.
Reapply and admire!
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n174/andy-wright88/My%20Cars/C2/06072009039.jpg
I do not accept any resposiblity for this, but I am more than happy help if you have any questions.