| satrya | 07-22-2003 11:59 PM |
Crack-proof front lip for impreza (DIY)
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Wanted to have something to reduce the amount of air that passes through the underbody without lowering the car, and not have to worry about curbs and objects breaking it. Most front lips I've seen are made of fiberglass, carbon fiber, or abs. I recall seeing polyurethane lip, but even that is still not impervious to breakage imho.
Found a neoprene material used for sealing long gaps. It has a somewhat "L" shaped cross section, perfect for a simple, hard-to-break, lip. One side for the lip surface, one side to bolt on to the front bumper cover. Granted, it's not as thick as aftermarket lips out there, so it doesn't reduce the amount of underbody flow that much, but it's much more durable, and less expensive (read: less than US$15 total hardware) to replace. The black neoprene matches surprisingly well with the color & texture of the black oem pieces on the front bumper and sideskirt, even though none of them are neoprene.
If you're into [B]subtle[/B] (almost oem-like) looking lip that can reduce underbody flow without worries of it breaking, or costing too much, these photos may be interesting.
[SIZE=1]p.s. That tall pipe you see in the trunk area is a DIY tractor-semi trailer style muffler. Just kidding.[/SIZE]
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip01.jpg[/IMG]
Found a neoprene material used for sealing long gaps. It has a somewhat "L" shaped cross section, perfect for a simple, hard-to-break, lip. One side for the lip surface, one side to bolt on to the front bumper cover. Granted, it's not as thick as aftermarket lips out there, so it doesn't reduce the amount of underbody flow that much, but it's much more durable, and less expensive (read: less than US$15 total hardware) to replace. The black neoprene matches surprisingly well with the color & texture of the black oem pieces on the front bumper and sideskirt, even though none of them are neoprene.
If you're into [B]subtle[/B] (almost oem-like) looking lip that can reduce underbody flow without worries of it breaking, or costing too much, these photos may be interesting.
[SIZE=1]p.s. That tall pipe you see in the trunk area is a DIY tractor-semi trailer style muffler. Just kidding.[/SIZE]
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip01.jpg[/IMG]
| satrya | 07-23-2003 12:01 AM |
side closeup
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[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip02.jpg[/IMG]
| satrya | 07-23-2003 12:02 AM |
front half closeup
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[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip03.jpg[/IMG]
More pics. [SIZE=1]Added on 20030725[/SIZE]
Closer look on the side view:
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip11.jpg[/IMG]
Front:
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip10.jpg[/IMG]
Other angles:
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip05.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip06.jpg[/IMG]
Bottom side. Arrow indicates which way is the front side of the car. Duct tape can be used to hold neoprene piece prior to drilling & bolting.
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip08.jpg[/IMG]
Cross section of remainder piece.
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip09.jpg[/IMG]
More pics. [SIZE=1]Added on 20030725[/SIZE]
Closer look on the side view:
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip11.jpg[/IMG]
Front:
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip10.jpg[/IMG]
Other angles:
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip05.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip06.jpg[/IMG]
Bottom side. Arrow indicates which way is the front side of the car. Duct tape can be used to hold neoprene piece prior to drilling & bolting.
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip08.jpg[/IMG]
Cross section of remainder piece.
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip09.jpg[/IMG]
| CharT | 07-23-2003 12:40 AM |
That actually doesn't look half bad. I wonder if the entire thing will deform when subjected to 80+ mph winds.
| satrya | 07-23-2003 12:59 AM |
[QUOTE][B]I wonder if the entire thing will deform when subjected to 80+ mph winds. [/B][/QUOTE]
I'd like to know too. :)
The cross section of the neoprene is rather thick, i.e. it doesn't look like a flat "L" shape. I would expect some deformation, but probably not enough to completely fold itself. Had the material been wider (say, 2 inches or more), it would probably need reinforcement.
I make no claims either way. :)
I'd like to know too. :)
The cross section of the neoprene is rather thick, i.e. it doesn't look like a flat "L" shape. I would expect some deformation, but probably not enough to completely fold itself. Had the material been wider (say, 2 inches or more), it would probably need reinforcement.
I make no claims either way. :)
| PARANOID56 | 07-23-2003 01:13 AM |
where did you get this at?
| TheDonPerignon | 07-23-2003 01:31 AM |
How do you think it will hold up to be painted?
| Kostamojen | 07-23-2003 05:08 AM |
Hmm, I like that too. Thats a home depot type item right? Might be an option for my car too, since I really dont have any lip options :p
| SlideWRX | 07-23-2003 09:51 AM |
The king of DIY stikes again (that's a good thing). Very nice, was this a Home Despot purchase?
Tom
Tom
| 128d | 07-23-2003 10:36 AM |
Looks very nice.
| satrya | 07-23-2003 10:50 AM |
Thanks all.
(1) where:
This was found in home depot, but I've seen an Ace Hardware store near my place sell something similar (Ace brand) for less. Specifically, look in sealing/gasketing section. Iirc, this was made to seal the lower gap of small garage doors. The total length is 9 feet, but it looks like 8 feet is all you need to cover that much.
(2) how much:
Depends on where you buy it at. Including fender washers, bolts & nuts, it would cost between US$10-15; no more.
(3) paintable?
Imho, it won't be paintable, because the neoprene surface seems to be quite porous, and it's probably too flexible for any flex additive to be effective. Imho, the oem black pastic look is what's attractive about it, in that it looks very subtle, and no one would suspect that the car didn't come with it. That's not what everyone wants, of course.
I think that covers the questions for now. Imho, if you find something similar that is wider (this one results in a ~1.25 inch wide lip), the install would be a bit more complicated.
In retrospect, from the point of view of reducing underbody flow, the lip should've been mounted further back, making it less visible. There are lower attach points if you're willing to do that, and I think it would reduce flow quite well, in spite of some deformation due to air pressure.
(1) where:
This was found in home depot, but I've seen an Ace Hardware store near my place sell something similar (Ace brand) for less. Specifically, look in sealing/gasketing section. Iirc, this was made to seal the lower gap of small garage doors. The total length is 9 feet, but it looks like 8 feet is all you need to cover that much.
(2) how much:
Depends on where you buy it at. Including fender washers, bolts & nuts, it would cost between US$10-15; no more.
(3) paintable?
Imho, it won't be paintable, because the neoprene surface seems to be quite porous, and it's probably too flexible for any flex additive to be effective. Imho, the oem black pastic look is what's attractive about it, in that it looks very subtle, and no one would suspect that the car didn't come with it. That's not what everyone wants, of course.
I think that covers the questions for now. Imho, if you find something similar that is wider (this one results in a ~1.25 inch wide lip), the install would be a bit more complicated.
In retrospect, from the point of view of reducing underbody flow, the lip should've been mounted further back, making it less visible. There are lower attach points if you're willing to do that, and I think it would reduce flow quite well, in spite of some deformation due to air pressure.
| JC | 07-23-2003 12:30 PM |
Looks good. Why don't you want to lower your car though? Even a small drop will help aerodynamics.
JC
JC
| satrya | 07-23-2003 12:41 PM |
lowering the car..
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[QUOTE][B]Why don't you want to lower your car though? Even a small drop will help aerodynamics.[/B][/QUOTE]
Short of an adjustable ride height like the one that Praxis is developing, I'm against lowering my car in fear of curbs, potholes, and any objects that can damage the underbody. Some places I've been to even inflicted scratches on the lower portion of the front bumper cover with only myself on board and a stock suspension setup. It's better to have some object like the break-proof lip to virtually lower the ground clearance, imho. It's more cost effective too.
But yes, I agree that lowering helps reduce the amount of underbody flow.
Short of an adjustable ride height like the one that Praxis is developing, I'm against lowering my car in fear of curbs, potholes, and any objects that can damage the underbody. Some places I've been to even inflicted scratches on the lower portion of the front bumper cover with only myself on board and a stock suspension setup. It's better to have some object like the break-proof lip to virtually lower the ground clearance, imho. It's more cost effective too.
But yes, I agree that lowering helps reduce the amount of underbody flow.
| SjpWrx | 07-23-2003 03:40 PM |
I like it. looks subtle but aggresive at the same time..but those fogs petruding form the grill thats a diffrenet story,i do like the ones consealed behind the grill though.
steve
steve
| satrya | 07-23-2003 04:13 PM |
[QUOTE][B]I like it. looks subtle but aggresive at the same time..but those fogs petruding form the grill thats a diffrenet story,i do like the ones consealed behind the grill though.[/B][/QUOTE]
(I believe) my motivation on both counts are function over form. The subtle lip is there to hopefully reduce underbody flow, although I can't say how much. The fogs are there to improve visibility in inclement weather (they do a really nice job), but are too large not to protrude like that. The ones behind the grille are much smaller, hence they can fit there.
[SIZE=1]Aesthetics is subjective, and I believe, one's perspective can change over time.[/SIZE]
(I believe) my motivation on both counts are function over form. The subtle lip is there to hopefully reduce underbody flow, although I can't say how much. The fogs are there to improve visibility in inclement weather (they do a really nice job), but are too large not to protrude like that. The ones behind the grille are much smaller, hence they can fit there.
[SIZE=1]Aesthetics is subjective, and I believe, one's perspective can change over time.[/SIZE]
| WRXcellerate | 07-23-2003 04:16 PM |
Ya i have a similar DIY lip but mine is more of a P shape, i dont have pictures now but the cross section look similar to this
[IMG]http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid71/p678d5bf26e10747fc100f9b21dd2c8f0/fb97bca9.jpg[/IMG] , and it isnt as low down as your's is, but ill take some pics, and it does look good IMO, and it could be in my head but It does seem to make my car seem less "floaty" over like 80ish:D
[IMG]http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid71/p678d5bf26e10747fc100f9b21dd2c8f0/fb97bca9.jpg[/IMG] , and it isnt as low down as your's is, but ill take some pics, and it does look good IMO, and it could be in my head but It does seem to make my car seem less "floaty" over like 80ish:D
| satrya | 07-23-2003 04:42 PM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by WRXcellerate [/i]
[B]Ya i have a similar DIY lip[/B][/QUOTE]
Mine is attached like (a) in the sketch below. Curious, is yours attached like (b) or (c)?
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip04.jpg[/IMG]
[QUOTE][B]and it could be in my head but It does seem to make my car seem less "floaty" over like 80ish:D [/B][/QUOTE]
Can't say I have a way to objectively test mine. It would be nice if I could. :)
[B]Ya i have a similar DIY lip[/B][/QUOTE]
Mine is attached like (a) in the sketch below. Curious, is yours attached like (b) or (c)?
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip04.jpg[/IMG]
[QUOTE][B]and it could be in my head but It does seem to make my car seem less "floaty" over like 80ish:D [/B][/QUOTE]
Can't say I have a way to objectively test mine. It would be nice if I could. :)
| xfrickx | 07-23-2003 04:44 PM |
Do you have any better pictures of this lip in light so you can see it better. also do you have pics of how you mounted it, and the actual material.
Thanks, the pics are kinda dark, but I'm very intrigued.
David
Thanks, the pics are kinda dark, but I'm very intrigued.
David
| satrya | 07-23-2003 04:58 PM |
[QUOTE][B]Do you have any better pictures of this lip in light so you can see it better. [/B][/QUOTE]
I'll see if I can take more. Probably this weekend at the latest. [QUOTE][B]also do you have pics of how you mounted it, and the actual material.[/B][/QUOTE]
The sketch on the post above yours (Figure (a)) shows how it is mounted. Mine is mounted with regular machine screws, nuts, and fender washers. Some of the holes I'm using already exist on the bumper cover (my guess is they are for the subaru bodykits). That's it. I'm sure there's no additional info that you can get out of more pictures, but I'll see what I can do.
I'll see if I can take more. Probably this weekend at the latest. [QUOTE][B]also do you have pics of how you mounted it, and the actual material.[/B][/QUOTE]
The sketch on the post above yours (Figure (a)) shows how it is mounted. Mine is mounted with regular machine screws, nuts, and fender washers. Some of the holes I'm using already exist on the bumper cover (my guess is they are for the subaru bodykits). That's it. I'm sure there's no additional info that you can get out of more pictures, but I'll see what I can do.
| WRXcellerate | 07-23-2003 07:12 PM |
heres the best i could do to show how i did it, it's not really that rounded at the front it has more of a sharp edge, ill take a picture here in like an hour
BTW its B;)
[IMG]http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid71/peb0d3003333df79ac5ea6af076fe1184/fb9770ef.jpg[/IMG]
BTW its B;)
[IMG]http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid71/peb0d3003333df79ac5ea6af076fe1184/fb9770ef.jpg[/IMG]
| SjpWrx | 07-23-2003 09:22 PM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by satrya [/i]
[B]
(I believe) my motivation on both counts are function over form. The fogs are there to improve visibility in inclement weather [/B][/QUOTE] How much inclement weather can you have you live in caili :lol: im just ragging on dont take offense;)
[B]
(I believe) my motivation on both counts are function over form. The fogs are there to improve visibility in inclement weather [/B][/QUOTE] How much inclement weather can you have you live in caili :lol: im just ragging on dont take offense;)
| satrya | 07-23-2003 11:33 PM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by SjpWrx [/i]
[B] How much inclement weather can you have you live in caili :lol: im just ragging on dont take offense;) [/B][/QUOTE]
None taken.
By inclement weather I don't mean severe storms, but dense fog in the hills/mountains/backroads in the morning/evening, heavy rain in winter (sometimes), or snowfall in Tahoe/Sierra mountains. With proper lighting, these conditions can become much more manageable, imho. AWD alone won't do.
[B] How much inclement weather can you have you live in caili :lol: im just ragging on dont take offense;) [/B][/QUOTE]
None taken.
By inclement weather I don't mean severe storms, but dense fog in the hills/mountains/backroads in the morning/evening, heavy rain in winter (sometimes), or snowfall in Tahoe/Sierra mountains. With proper lighting, these conditions can become much more manageable, imho. AWD alone won't do.
| satrya | 07-23-2003 11:35 PM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by WRXcellerate [/i]
[B]heres the best i could do to show how i did it, it's not really that rounded at the front it has more of a sharp edge, ill take a picture here in like an hour[/B][/QUOTE]
Thanks. So I guessed the other way round. With that setup, I'm interested to see how the material wraps up in the corner. Perhaps you had to trim the flat part a bit to minimize the deformation of the rounded edge on the corner (near the oem fogs)?
[B]heres the best i could do to show how i did it, it's not really that rounded at the front it has more of a sharp edge, ill take a picture here in like an hour[/B][/QUOTE]
Thanks. So I guessed the other way round. With that setup, I'm interested to see how the material wraps up in the corner. Perhaps you had to trim the flat part a bit to minimize the deformation of the rounded edge on the corner (near the oem fogs)?
| JC | 07-24-2003 01:03 AM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by satrya [/i]
[B]None taken.
By inclement weather I don't mean severe storms, but dense fog in the hills/mountains/backroads in the morning/evening, heavy rain in winter (sometimes), or snowfall in Tahoe/Sierra mountains. With proper lighting, these conditions can become much more manageable, imho. AWD alone won't do. [/B][/QUOTE]
I've never found more lighting to be helpful in a blizzard. Do you have special lights or something? (I'm being serious not sarcastic) Do they help?
JC
[B]None taken.
By inclement weather I don't mean severe storms, but dense fog in the hills/mountains/backroads in the morning/evening, heavy rain in winter (sometimes), or snowfall in Tahoe/Sierra mountains. With proper lighting, these conditions can become much more manageable, imho. AWD alone won't do. [/B][/QUOTE]
I've never found more lighting to be helpful in a blizzard. Do you have special lights or something? (I'm being serious not sarcastic) Do they help?
JC
| satrya | 07-24-2003 01:49 AM |
[QUOTE][i][B]I've never found more lighting to be helpful in a blizzard. Do you have special lights or something? (I'm being serious not sarcastic) Do they help?[/B][/QUOTE]
The last time I was driving under snowfall at night, the aux fog lights helped a lot. The same goes for rainy & foggy conditions. On several occasions, I tried different combinations under inclement weather to see which one works best.
I know that extra light doesn't always help, because it may make the water particles (fog, rain,..) scatter the light even more, and cause this glow in front of you. That is the case with high beams. Aux driving lights that are designed to complement high beams or spot beam pattern also don't work too well imho. Most aux lighting with reflector design and uncovered bulb wouldn't fare too well either imho.
But projector fog lights with a sharp vertical cutoff help minimize the amount of glow, and imho, allow the road illumination to be more effective. The wider (but shorter) reach of the beams also help because you're probably driving slower and need to be more aware of the objects to the side. The lack of wavelengths close to blue also help, hence yellow-hued fogs work nicely. Orange & red are better, but I don't think that's legal.
If necessary, I even turn of the low beams and just use aux fogs. There may be legal issues with running fogs only on public roads though, but that's besides the point.
Imho, the Hella Optilux projector does a decent job in improving inclement weather visibility, given its price. Don't expect long range lighting improvement (because it's not designed for that), or blinding brightness (it's only 55W). For about US$45-65, the hella optilux projector foglights give you a yellowish hue light (afaik, this is due to the projector lens' optics), a sharp vertical cutoff, and a wide beam spread. I'm sure there are other excellent ones, but probably not as cost effective as Hella Optiluxes. PIAAs of similar configuration would probably cost twice as much. Recently, Summitracing and other autostores sell units that look alike, for about US$5-10 less than the Optilux.
The last time I was driving under snowfall at night, the aux fog lights helped a lot. The same goes for rainy & foggy conditions. On several occasions, I tried different combinations under inclement weather to see which one works best.
I know that extra light doesn't always help, because it may make the water particles (fog, rain,..) scatter the light even more, and cause this glow in front of you. That is the case with high beams. Aux driving lights that are designed to complement high beams or spot beam pattern also don't work too well imho. Most aux lighting with reflector design and uncovered bulb wouldn't fare too well either imho.
But projector fog lights with a sharp vertical cutoff help minimize the amount of glow, and imho, allow the road illumination to be more effective. The wider (but shorter) reach of the beams also help because you're probably driving slower and need to be more aware of the objects to the side. The lack of wavelengths close to blue also help, hence yellow-hued fogs work nicely. Orange & red are better, but I don't think that's legal.
If necessary, I even turn of the low beams and just use aux fogs. There may be legal issues with running fogs only on public roads though, but that's besides the point.
Imho, the Hella Optilux projector does a decent job in improving inclement weather visibility, given its price. Don't expect long range lighting improvement (because it's not designed for that), or blinding brightness (it's only 55W). For about US$45-65, the hella optilux projector foglights give you a yellowish hue light (afaik, this is due to the projector lens' optics), a sharp vertical cutoff, and a wide beam spread. I'm sure there are other excellent ones, but probably not as cost effective as Hella Optiluxes. PIAAs of similar configuration would probably cost twice as much. Recently, Summitracing and other autostores sell units that look alike, for about US$5-10 less than the Optilux.
| Kostamojen | 07-25-2003 03:47 AM |
Ok, I went to Lowes and Home Depot and the only thing I found even remotely close to that was this rolled up semi-foamy bag of sealant that LOOKED like that but was super-soft and way to flexible for a lip...
| satrya | 07-25-2003 11:10 AM |
[QUOTE][B]...the only thing I found even remotely close to that was this rolled up semi-foamy bag of sealant that LOOKED like that but was super-soft and way to flexible for a lip... [/B][/QUOTE]
It may suffice in the sense of reducing the amount of air flow. I know the one I got is somewhat soft too, but the thickness makes up for it. If you push on to it, it will deform, but it won't fold over. Here's how the cross section looks on mine:
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip09.jpg[/IMG]
It may suffice in the sense of reducing the amount of air flow. I know the one I got is somewhat soft too, but the thickness makes up for it. If you push on to it, it will deform, but it won't fold over. Here's how the cross section looks on mine:
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip09.jpg[/IMG]
| satrya | 07-25-2003 01:39 PM |
Survived the first incident...
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This is by no means a solid proof on the lip's durability, but I thought it may be interesting to post anyway. Just this morning I ran over a small branch on the highway. It wasn't a big branch, but big enough to make a noticeable impact sound when it hit the bumper cover and underbody. It seemed to have hit the right side of the bumper cover and the neoprene lip. Here is a photo I took just this morning. The neoprene lip has no scratch marks, but there are some dirt marks from the branch grazing it. It's not visible on the picture below. A bit of wet towel will remove all the marks made by the branch on the neoprene lip.
You can see leaves (circled) that get caught between the fog trim & the bumper cover, and between the neoprene lip & bumper cover. In retrospect, I would've been worried had it been a fiberglass or carbon fiber lip.
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/leavesonlip.jpg[/IMG]
You can see leaves (circled) that get caught between the fog trim & the bumper cover, and between the neoprene lip & bumper cover. In retrospect, I would've been worried had it been a fiberglass or carbon fiber lip.
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/leavesonlip.jpg[/IMG]
| satrya | 07-25-2003 03:32 PM |
Front page updated
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Updated 3rd post with photos of the side, cross section of the neoprene piece, and bottom view.
| WRallyBlue02 | 07-25-2003 07:43 PM |
Where did you get the fog trim, I have never seen that, it looks very nice!
| satrya | 07-25-2003 11:19 PM |
[QUOTE][B]Where did you get the fog trim...[/B][/QUOTE]
Here's how to get a fog trim like that:
[url]http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=330937[/url]
But if you're not into DIY, there's one somewhat similar (conceptwise at least) by Lester. [url]www.nopionline.com[/url] carries it, afaik.
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200210/impreza730gr.jpg[/IMG]
Here's how to get a fog trim like that:
[url]http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=330937[/url]
But if you're not into DIY, there's one somewhat similar (conceptwise at least) by Lester. [url]www.nopionline.com[/url] carries it, afaik.
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200210/impreza730gr.jpg[/IMG]
| Kostamojen | 07-26-2003 01:27 AM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by satrya [/i]
[B]
It may suffice in the sense of reducing the amount of air flow. I know the one I got is somewhat soft too, but the thickness makes up for it. If you push on to it, it will deform, but it won't fold over. Here's how the cross section looks on mine:
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip09.jpg[/IMG] [/B][/QUOTE]
Ya, thats the stuff I found... I thought it was gonna be thicker rubber not foamy stuff :(
[B]
It may suffice in the sense of reducing the amount of air flow. I know the one I got is somewhat soft too, but the thickness makes up for it. If you push on to it, it will deform, but it won't fold over. Here's how the cross section looks on mine:
[IMG]http://mechatro2.me.berkeley.edu/~satrya/pics/photos/wrx200307frontlip/frontlip09.jpg[/IMG] [/B][/QUOTE]
Ya, thats the stuff I found... I thought it was gonna be thicker rubber not foamy stuff :(
| satrya | 07-26-2003 02:01 AM |
[QUOTE][B]Ya, thats the stuff I found... I thought it was gonna be thicker rubber not foamy stuff :( [/B][/QUOTE]
Afaik, neoprene doesn't get any stiffer than that.
One way to make the shape hold better, is to place a similar or stiffer material behind it. I initially planned on doing that, but after bolting and making the neoprene follow the bumper cover curvature, it had the right amount of stiffness (from the curb-proof perspective). Since you already have the material, perhaps you can try it on and add reinforcement material if needed. :)
Afaik, neoprene doesn't get any stiffer than that.
One way to make the shape hold better, is to place a similar or stiffer material behind it. I initially planned on doing that, but after bolting and making the neoprene follow the bumper cover curvature, it had the right amount of stiffness (from the curb-proof perspective). Since you already have the material, perhaps you can try it on and add reinforcement material if needed. :)
| 128d | 07-26-2003 11:31 AM |
Anyone have any luck finding that part on the nopi site?
| satrya | 07-26-2003 06:11 PM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by 128d [/i]
[B]Anyone have any luck finding that part on the nopi site? [/B][/QUOTE]
My bad. They used to list that fog trim as well as some other parts. They are listed as Erebuni parts, because afaik, Erebuni imports Lester (of Italy) products to the US. But I recall someone posting a USDM WRX with that fog trim, so, at some point in the past, it used to be available. Perhaps there wasn't enough interest in it.
Well, the DIY isn't that hard :)
[B]Anyone have any luck finding that part on the nopi site? [/B][/QUOTE]
My bad. They used to list that fog trim as well as some other parts. They are listed as Erebuni parts, because afaik, Erebuni imports Lester (of Italy) products to the US. But I recall someone posting a USDM WRX with that fog trim, so, at some point in the past, it used to be available. Perhaps there wasn't enough interest in it.
Well, the DIY isn't that hard :)
| Scaed | 07-29-2003 10:34 PM |
No Luck at Home Depot
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I guess I live too far south for neoprene door seals. Did find this at McMaster-Carr. Looks like the same, is it?
[B][COLOR=red][URL=http://www.mcmaster.com/catalog/109/html/2686.html#.]Neoprene Garage Door Sealer[/URL][/COLOR][/B]
[B][COLOR=red][URL=http://www.mcmaster.com/catalog/109/html/2686.html#.]Neoprene Garage Door Sealer[/URL][/COLOR][/B]
| satrya | 07-29-2003 11:40 PM |
Yes
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[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by Scaed [/i]
[B]I guess I live too far south for neoprene door seals. Did find this at McMaster-Carr. Looks like the same, is it?
[B][COLOR=red][URL=http://www.mcmaster.com/catalog/109/html/2686.html#.]Neoprene Garage Door Sealer[/URL][/COLOR][/B] [/B][/QUOTE]
Prior to locating mine at Home Depot, that one from mcmaster was the one I had in mind. Based on the description, Model 4 (part # 8121A11, 9ft long) is similar or identical to what I got at Home Depot.
Just one note though, as it is neoprene, don't expect fiberglass stiff (although it won't be crack-prone like fiberglass either). So, if you want to stiffen it more, you may need to fill the gap with other material. There must be some foam or rubber strip that is thick enough for reinforcement. I think I recall seeing something that will do the trick at mcmaster. It had a self-adhesive tape too. Good luck. Post some photos afterwards maybe.
[B]I guess I live too far south for neoprene door seals. Did find this at McMaster-Carr. Looks like the same, is it?
[B][COLOR=red][URL=http://www.mcmaster.com/catalog/109/html/2686.html#.]Neoprene Garage Door Sealer[/URL][/COLOR][/B] [/B][/QUOTE]
Prior to locating mine at Home Depot, that one from mcmaster was the one I had in mind. Based on the description, Model 4 (part # 8121A11, 9ft long) is similar or identical to what I got at Home Depot.
Just one note though, as it is neoprene, don't expect fiberglass stiff (although it won't be crack-prone like fiberglass either). So, if you want to stiffen it more, you may need to fill the gap with other material. There must be some foam or rubber strip that is thick enough for reinforcement. I think I recall seeing something that will do the trick at mcmaster. It had a self-adhesive tape too. Good luck. Post some photos afterwards maybe.
| arco | 07-29-2005 03:12 AM |
someone do it on an 04+. i'm thinking about it but i'm curious to see how it would look first. i guess i'm not a confident DIYer. haha.
| alter.ego | 12-16-2005 01:19 AM |
any words of wisdom for good hardware to bolt this up?
| wrx_gtp | 12-16-2005 01:44 AM |
On a cold and lonely night nobody can hear a sad boy cry
....in teh gettooo, ....in teh gettoooooo
Dang, just looking at that I can hear gun shots in the background, come own.
No carbon fiber, how can a brotha keep it real!
Ok, ok... Just kidding its a cool concept in a Macgyver sort of way. Keep on spooling dawg. Yeah, yeah.
....in teh gettooo, ....in teh gettoooooo
Dang, just looking at that I can hear gun shots in the background, come own.
No carbon fiber, how can a brotha keep it real!
Ok, ok... Just kidding its a cool concept in a Macgyver sort of way. Keep on spooling dawg. Yeah, yeah.
| alter.ego | 12-16-2005 02:36 AM |
as if explaning how a newer driver ie., someone under 24, might possibly want replaceable protection for an often abused curb-finder,
or the fact that there is indeed carbon fiber here on said car would make any difference in my admiration for your ability to hold back sarcasm and be genuinly helpful.
or the fact that there is indeed carbon fiber here on said car would make any difference in my admiration for your ability to hold back sarcasm and be genuinly helpful.
| wrx_gtp | 12-16-2005 04:10 AM |
...that's what she said last night.
Oh, and if you're worried about scraping, practice parking. Really, I've seen way too many cars ruined by "young" drivers and their mad skills.
Just like my old WWII pal Lefty would say, "If you're not sure where you're stepping, then .....BAANNNGGG!!!!
First step in tuning: Tune the driver.
Oh, and if you're worried about scraping, practice parking. Really, I've seen way too many cars ruined by "young" drivers and their mad skills.
Just like my old WWII pal Lefty would say, "If you're not sure where you're stepping, then .....BAANNNGGG!!!!
First step in tuning: Tune the driver.
| spongejosh | 12-16-2005 04:59 AM |
i like this idea and i may do it to my car. seeing as my car actually gets driven in the snow/ice/dirt this seems very practical.
now i can have a lip and rallycross too.
josh
now i can have a lip and rallycross too.
josh
| garie | 12-16-2005 05:14 AM |
looks very nice. The nicest looking DIY lip I've seen. good job!
| satrya | 12-24-2005 02:15 AM |
Thanks for the opinions, whatever they are. I won't go into the debate of whether this DIY looks good etc.
Regarding mounting hardware, it is best to distribute the load by using several fasteners. If you're using nut & bolt, a wide washer helps a lot. A better option would be to fabricate a splitter-like washer that goes all the way on the bottom of the horizontal part of the lip imho.
Regarding mounting hardware, it is best to distribute the load by using several fasteners. If you're using nut & bolt, a wide washer helps a lot. A better option would be to fabricate a splitter-like washer that goes all the way on the bottom of the horizontal part of the lip imho.
| txl146 | 02-22-2006 12:19 AM |
This will be my next exterior mod...
Satrya, any issue in terms of durability of material, etc? I am going to Lowe's tomorrow to look for this material. Any idea what it is called? neoprene door seals?
Satrya, any issue in terms of durability of material, etc? I am going to Lowe's tomorrow to look for this material. Any idea what it is called? neoprene door seals?
| Handsdown | 02-22-2006 01:06 AM |
i used Frost King garage door sealant trim, it was fairly cheap and made of medium hardness rubber... a little deeper black in color and a little more substantial.
| txl146 | 02-22-2006 01:09 AM |
Is that FKGDST available at Lowe's? you got any picture available?
| JohnnyWas | 02-22-2006 01:14 AM |
not a bad idea. might have to try this myself, being such a cheap mod. hell, if i dont like it -- ill just buy a real one haha
| wrx13oy | 02-22-2006 01:27 AM |
i made one too but i used one that was all rubber. its more durable but it tends to crinkle on the the corners of the bumper
[img]http://usera.imagecave.com/wrx13oy/cover.JPG[/img]
[img]http://usera.imagecave.com/wrx13oy/cover.JPG[/img]
| JohnnyWas | 02-22-2006 01:32 AM |
[QUOTE=wrx13oy]i made one too but i used one that was all rubber. its more durable but it tends to crinkle on the the corners of the bumper
[img]http://usera.imagecave.com/wrx13oy/cover.JPG[/img][/QUOTE]
that doesnt look half bad -- could you pm me more pics and info about what you did
[img]http://usera.imagecave.com/wrx13oy/cover.JPG[/img][/QUOTE]
that doesnt look half bad -- could you pm me more pics and info about what you did
| txl146 | 02-22-2006 01:38 AM |
[QUOTE=wrx13oy]i made one too but i used one that was all rubber. its more durable but it tends to crinkle on the the corners of the bumper
[img]http://usera.imagecave.com/wrx13oy/cover.JPG[/img][/QUOTE]
Where did you get the material from? why spend $400 for a front lip when you can get a lip made for $20? :)
[img]http://usera.imagecave.com/wrx13oy/cover.JPG[/img][/QUOTE]
Where did you get the material from? why spend $400 for a front lip when you can get a lip made for $20? :)
| txl146 | 02-22-2006 12:17 PM |
I will stop by at Lowe's today. Will post a picture of material and DIY install when I get a chance. :)
| WRXSIG | 02-22-2006 12:37 PM |
kinda hard to see...but its there
[IMG]http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b336/WRXSIG112/D50361.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b336/WRXSIG112/D50361.jpg[/IMG]
| Nicholas Mouyos | 02-22-2006 01:03 PM |
I dig it, and your sun visor 8D
| vf22-wrx | 02-22-2006 07:31 PM |
WRXSIG yo car is ugly...btw when do I get to see it lol
I never knew about the DIY lip after that bitch cracked your sti splitters
I never knew about the DIY lip after that bitch cracked your sti splitters
| txl146 | 02-22-2006 10:07 PM |
I spent an hour installing the FIY front lip. I bought a 9' Frost King garage door sealant trim from Lowe's for around $7. Installation was relatively easy since I have an air splitter with pre-drilled holes. All I had to was align the trim against pre-drilled holes and makes new holes on the sealant trim. I used about 13 bolts to secure the lip.
Overall, the lip looks pretty nice. I will post a picture tomorrow.
Overall, the lip looks pretty nice. I will post a picture tomorrow.
| AJBoost | 02-23-2006 01:46 PM |
[QUOTE=WRXSIG]kinda hard to see...but its there
[IMG]http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b336/WRXSIG112/D50361.jpg[/IMG][/QUOTE]
No. :lol:
[IMG]http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b336/WRXSIG112/D50361.jpg[/IMG][/QUOTE]
No. :lol:
| WRXSIG | 02-24-2006 11:58 AM |
[QUOTE=AJBoost]No. :lol:[/QUOTE]
?? whats that mean
?? whats that mean
| ChrisL2 | 02-24-2006 06:42 PM |
[QUOTE=WRXSIG]?? whats that mean[/QUOTE]
More like that does not look good at all. It looks good on the bugeye because it goes straight across. If you didn't have the splitters, it would probably look fine, but because you have the funky upward bend in the middle..
NO.
More like that does not look good at all. It looks good on the bugeye because it goes straight across. If you didn't have the splitters, it would probably look fine, but because you have the funky upward bend in the middle..
NO.
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