Review And Installation Of Vis Racing Body Kits On A 240sx


Review And Installation Of Vis Racing Body Kits On A 240sx

So, you're thinking about slapping a VIS Racing body kit on your 240SX, eh? Good choice! VIS makes some pretty aggressive and stylish kits, and they can really transform the look of your S-chassis. But before you dive in headfirst, let's go over what you need to know about reviewing a VIS kit, proper installation techniques, and potential pitfalls you might encounter along the way. This isn't a plug-and-play deal, and a little prep work and know-how can save you a lot of headache (and money) in the long run.

Reviewing Your VIS Racing Body Kit

First things first: before you even think about touching a wrench, give your new kit a thorough inspection. Don't just glance at the pieces and call it a day. This is where you identify any potential issues *before* you start cutting and drilling. Remember, you're dealing with fiberglass (or sometimes carbon fiber), and things aren't always perfect straight out of the box.

What to Look For:

  • Shipping Damage: This is crucial. Look for cracks, chips, scratches, or warping. Note any damage immediately and contact VIS Racing or the retailer. Take pictures – lots of them – as proof. Don't sign off on the delivery without inspecting, otherwise, you risk difficulty in claiming compensation later.
  • Material Quality: Check the thickness and consistency of the fiberglass. Thin spots can be prone to cracking. Look for air bubbles or voids in the resin. These indicate potential weak points. Carbon fiber should have a consistent weave pattern and a smooth, glossy finish.
  • Fitment: This is the big one. Hold the pieces up to your car (without removing any factory panels yet!) to get a sense of how they'll line up. Check gaps around the fenders, hood, and bumpers. Look for any major discrepancies. Keep in mind that aftermarket body kits rarely fit perfectly right out of the box. Expect to do some trimming, sanding, and filling. But, if there is a drastic difference in fitment it might be cause for concern.
  • Surface Finish: Is the gel coat smooth, or is it rough and uneven? A rough surface will require more prep work before you can paint. Check for "orange peel" – a textured surface resembling the skin of an orange.
  • Hardware: Confirm that all necessary hardware, such as mounting brackets, screws, and mesh grilles (if included), are present.

Important Note: Don't be surprised if the finish on your VIS kit is less than perfect. Most fiberglass kits require significant prep work, including sanding, priming, and filling, to achieve a smooth, paintable surface. This is normal, and you should factor this time and cost into your project.

Installation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, you've inspected your kit, you're satisfied (or at least prepared for the challenges), and you're ready to start wrenching. Here's a general overview of the installation process. Remember, this is a guideline, and the specific steps may vary depending on the kit and your car's configuration.

Tools You'll Need:

  • Socket set and wrenches
  • Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
  • Drill with various drill bits
  • Grinder or rotary tool with cutting and sanding discs
  • Body filler (e.g., Bondo)
  • Sandpaper (various grits, from coarse to fine)
  • Primer
  • Paint (and clear coat, if desired)
  • Masking tape and paper
  • Measuring tape
  • Pencil or marker
  • Safety glasses and respirator
  • A friend (seriously, you'll need an extra set of hands)

Step 1: Preparation is Key

Remove the factory body panels that will be replaced by the VIS kit. This typically includes the front bumper, rear bumper, side skirts, and sometimes the fenders. Label and store all the hardware carefully – you might need some of it later. Thoroughly clean the areas where the new kit will be installed. Remove any dirt, grease, or rust. This will ensure proper adhesion of the new panels.

Step 2: Test Fitting (Again!)

Now's the time for a *serious* test fit. Hold each piece of the VIS kit in place and carefully assess the fitment. Look for areas where the kit is rubbing against the car, where the gaps are too large or too small, or where the mounting points don't line up correctly. This is the most critical step! The more time you spend on test fitting, the better the final result will be.

Step 3: Trimming and Sanding

Inevitably, you'll need to trim and sand the VIS kit to achieve a proper fit. Use a grinder or rotary tool to carefully remove excess material. Be patient and take your time. It's better to remove too little material than too much. Regularly check the fitment as you go. Sand the edges of the kit to smooth them out and remove any sharp edges. Use a coarser grit sandpaper (e.g., 80-grit) for initial shaping and then gradually move to finer grits (e.g., 120-grit, 220-grit) to refine the surface. Safety glasses and a respirator are essential during this step to protect yourself from fiberglass dust.

Step 4: Modifying Mounting Points

Often, the mounting points on the VIS kit won't line up perfectly with the factory mounting points on your car. You may need to drill new holes, relocate existing mounting points, or fabricate custom brackets. Use a drill to create new mounting holes. Be sure to countersink the holes so that the screws sit flush with the surface of the kit. If you need to relocate mounting points, you can use fiberglass resin or epoxy to attach new brackets to the kit. Custom brackets can be made from sheet metal or aluminum. Use rivets or bolts to attach the brackets to the kit and the car.

Step 5: Body Filler (Bondo)

Once you're happy with the fitment, it's time to address any imperfections in the surface of the VIS kit. This is where body filler (like Bondo) comes in handy. Mix the body filler according to the manufacturer's instructions and apply it to any dents, scratches, or uneven areas. Use a spreader to smooth out the body filler and feather it into the surrounding surface. Let the body filler dry completely. Sand the body filler to blend it seamlessly with the rest of the kit. Start with a coarse grit sandpaper and gradually move to finer grits.

Step 6: Priming

Before you can paint the VIS kit, you need to apply a coat of primer. Primer helps to create a smooth, even surface for the paint to adhere to. It also helps to protect the fiberglass from moisture and UV damage. Apply several thin coats of primer, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Sand the primer with a fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 400-grit) to remove any imperfections. Wipe the kit down with a tack cloth to remove any dust or debris.

Step 7: Painting

Now for the fun part! Apply several thin coats of paint to the VIS kit, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the paint you're using. If you're using a two-stage paint system (base coat and clear coat), apply the base coat first and then apply the clear coat after the base coat has dried. The number of coats will depend on the coverage of the paint. Typically two or three coats.

Step 8: Clear Coat (Optional)

Applying a clear coat will add a layer of protection to the paint and give it a glossy finish. Apply several thin coats of clear coat, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Sand the clear coat with a very fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 2000-grit) to remove any imperfections. Buff the clear coat to a high shine.

Step 9: Final Assembly

Once the paint and clear coat are dry, you can begin to reassemble the VIS kit onto your car. Use the hardware you removed earlier, or purchase new hardware if needed. Be careful not to over-tighten the screws, as this can damage the fiberglass. Step back and admire your work! And then probably drive to the shop for a professional alignment.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

  • Rushing the Process: Patience is key. Don't try to complete the installation in a weekend. Take your time and do it right.
  • Ignoring Fitment Issues: Address fitment issues early on. Don't try to force pieces to fit.
  • Using the Wrong Tools: Use the correct tools for the job. Don't try to cut fiberglass with a butter knife.
  • Skipping Safety Precautions: Always wear safety glasses and a respirator when working with fiberglass.
  • Over-Tightening Hardware: Fiberglass is brittle and can crack easily. Don't over-tighten screws or bolts.
  • Poor Paint Preparation: A bad paint job can ruin the entire project. Take the time to properly prepare the surface before painting.
  • Not Seeking Help When Needed: If you're not sure about something, don't be afraid to ask for help from a professional.

Installing a VIS Racing body kit on your 240SX is a challenging but rewarding project. By following these steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve a professional-looking result that will transform the appearance of your car. Just remember to take your time, be patient, and don't be afraid to ask for help when needed. Good luck, and happy modding!

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