S14 Rocket Bunny V2 Kit Installation Technical Guide
So, you've got your hands on a Rocket Bunny V2 kit for your S14. Excellent choice! This kit will radically transform the look of your ride. But let's be clear: this isn't a weekend project for the faint of heart. This guide assumes you have a solid understanding of auto body work, basic mechanics, and fiberglass modification. We'll walk through the key steps, highlighting potential pitfalls and offering pro tips to ensure a professional-looking installation. Remember, safety first! Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, and a respirator, especially when sanding and working with fiberglass.
Preparation is Key: Before You Even Think About Cutting
Before you even consider picking up a cutting wheel, meticulous preparation is paramount. This stage is critical for ensuring proper fitment and a clean final product. Think of it as the foundation upon which the entire project rests.
Inventory and Inspection
First and foremost, unpack everything and take a complete inventory. Verify that all pieces listed on the kit's documentation are present and undamaged. Examine each piece for manufacturing imperfections like air bubbles, stress cracks, or uneven surfaces. Note any issues and contact the supplier immediately. Addressing these issues upfront will save you a headache later.
Test Fitting: The Most Important Step
This is where patience is truly tested. Test fit every piece before you do anything else. I cannot stress this enough. Use masking tape to temporarily hold the pieces in place. This allows you to visualize the final product, identify potential fitment issues, and make necessary adjustments *before* committing to any irreversible cuts. Look for gaps, overlaps, and areas where the fiberglass might be conflicting with existing body panels. Pay close attention to wheel well clearances, door alignment, and the overall flow of the kit.
Pro Tip: Take detailed photos and notes during the test fitting process. This will be invaluable when you start making modifications and need to refer back to your initial observations.
Marking and Outlining: Precision is Everything
Once you're satisfied with the initial test fit, it's time to accurately mark the areas that need to be cut. Use a sharpie or grease pencil to clearly outline the cut lines on your existing body panels. Use the Rocket Bunny panels as templates, but don't rely solely on their edges. Always double-check your measurements and ensure the lines are straight and consistent. Consider using a laser level or a straight edge to ensure accuracy. Account for the thickness of the cutting wheel when marking. Remember, it's always better to cut less and then trim more later.
The Point of No Return: Cutting and Trimming
This is where things get real. Cutting into your car's body panels is a serious step, so take your time and proceed with caution.
Choosing the Right Tools
The tools you use will significantly impact the quality and speed of the job. A high-speed rotary tool (like a Dremel) with reinforced cutting wheels is essential for precise cuts. You'll also need a body saw or reciprocating saw for larger, straighter cuts. Angle grinders can be useful for removing larger sections of metal, but they can be less precise. Always wear eye and ear protection when using power tools.
Cutting the Fenders and Quarter Panels
Begin by cutting along the marked lines. Use short, controlled bursts to avoid overheating the cutting wheel. Overheating can cause the wheel to shatter or melt the surrounding paint. Periodically stop and allow the cutting wheel to cool down. After cutting, use a grinder with a flap disc to smooth out the rough edges and remove any burrs. Be careful not to remove too much material. The goal is to create a clean, smooth edge that will allow the Rocket Bunny panels to sit flush against the body.
Pro Tip: Consider using masking tape to protect the surrounding paint from scratches and sparks during the cutting process. Apply multiple layers of tape for added protection.
Dealing with Inner Fenders and Support Structures
In most cases, you'll need to modify the inner fenders to accommodate the wider Rocket Bunny panels. This might involve cutting, trimming, or even completely removing sections of the inner fender. Pay attention to any support structures or wiring harnesses that might be in the way. Relocate or protect these components as needed. Reinforce any weakened areas with sheet metal or fiberglass to maintain structural integrity.
Fiberglass Modification: Taming the Bunny
Rocket Bunny kits are known for their aggressive styling, but they often require some degree of fiberglass modification to achieve perfect fitment. This is where your skills in bodywork will be put to the test.
Addressing Fitment Issues
Even with meticulous test fitting and marking, you're likely to encounter some fitment issues. These can range from minor gaps to significant overlaps. The key is to address these issues systematically and patiently.
- Gaps: Small gaps can be filled with body filler (bondo). For larger gaps, you might need to add fiberglass to the panel. This involves layering fiberglass cloth and resin to build up the missing material.
- Overlaps: Overlaps are typically addressed by sanding or grinding down the excess fiberglass. Use a rotary tool with a sanding drum or an angle grinder with a sanding disc to carefully remove the material.
- Warpage: Fiberglass panels can sometimes warp or distort during shipping or storage. Gentle heat from a heat gun can be used to reshape the panel. Be careful not to overheat the fiberglass, as this can cause it to bubble or crack.
Surface Preparation
Before applying any body filler or paint, it's essential to properly prepare the surface of the fiberglass. This involves sanding the entire panel with progressively finer grits of sandpaper. Start with a coarse grit (e.g., 80 grit) to remove any imperfections and then gradually move to finer grits (e.g., 180 grit, 320 grit) to create a smooth, even surface. Clean the panel thoroughly with a wax and grease remover before proceeding.
Mounting and Securing the Panels
Once the fiberglass panels are properly modified and prepped, it's time to mount them to the car. The Rocket Bunny kit typically uses a combination of rivets, screws, and adhesive to secure the panels.
Riveting and Screwing
Rivets and screws provide a strong and reliable mechanical bond. Drill pilot holes through the Rocket Bunny panels and into the car's body. Use rivets or screws with a large head to distribute the load evenly. Be careful not to overtighten the fasteners, as this can crack the fiberglass.
Adhesive Bonding
Adhesive bonding can be used to supplement the mechanical fasteners. Use a high-quality automotive panel bonding adhesive. Apply the adhesive to both the Rocket Bunny panel and the car's body. Clamp the panel in place and allow the adhesive to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Finishing Touches: Paint and Detailing
The final step is to paint the Rocket Bunny kit and blend it seamlessly with the rest of the car's body. This is best left to a professional painter, as it requires specialized equipment and expertise.
Priming and Painting
Apply several coats of primer to the entire Rocket Bunny kit. Sand the primer smooth before applying the base coat. Use a high-quality automotive paint that matches the color of your car. Apply several thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Finish with a clear coat to protect the paint and add shine.
Blending and Polishing
After the paint has dried, use a rubbing compound and polishing compound to blend the edges of the Rocket Bunny kit with the rest of the car's body. This will create a smooth, seamless transition.
Installing a Rocket Bunny V2 kit is a challenging but rewarding project. By following these steps and taking your time, you can transform your S14 into a true head-turner. Good luck, and remember to take breaks and ask for help when you need it!