menna

Hey guys,
I'm just curious on how to install a body kit. I don't personally own a car, but I had this discussion with my friend, he says that body kits "clip on/over" the original bumpers/skirts, but I said that they are glued into place and screwed in. I've looked online for an answer, but every site says to give it to a body shop to install because its a very difficult process, which they even have trouble with
Any ideas?

Apocalypse Pony

Depends on the kit I would think. Some kits have accessory's that are stuck on, or screwed into place....simple bolt on project. Other, more elaborate kits, like what Roush does with thier Mustangs, require wholesale removal of body parts to accommodate the new body kit.

I would say the bolt on/stick on body kits are cheaper in quality and price wise, with less engineering input. Removal of body panels is usually the domain of higher end, more extensive/expensive kits with (you'd hope) better engineering input and materials. Simplified answer, but best on short notice right off the top.

menna

Have you Installed your own kit before?

Apocalypse Pony

Nah... I'm running totally stock, but if I was to do that, I'd likely just stick to adding a chin spoiler or swapping out a rear spoiler. The full on body kits don't interest me much.

menna

that's understandable, full body could get a little ricey

Apocalypse Pony

Nothing against anybody who's running them, but I tend to agree.......

Crafty

well depends on the kit too. i'm looking at a steeda front lip myself eventually. but roush/saleen are good kits. anything else "IMO" are just bad looking.
also the termi "body kit" is sick. but waaaayyy too expensive

ChadStang

I put a Saleen body kit on my 04 GT and what a pos it was. The body shop spent countless hours trying to get it to fit properly and it didn't even come with any hardware or instructions. I spent the extra money to get the real kit right from Saleen but I may as well have got the "crappy" knock off kit and saved myself some money. Once it was finally done it looked good but I would never buy anything from Saleen again. I sent them emails for advice during the install and then some complaint emails after it was done and never received response on any of them. I have heard really good things about Roush's kits though. Apparently they are like an oem fit.

wannabesaleen281

i bought the knock off saleen and first i bought fiberglass to save money and after a few months it was all cracked so i went out and bought new bumpers in polyurethene my only word of advice is stay away from fiberglass spend the extra little bit and get polyurethene and in the long run you will save money on both install and damage.