Front Spoiier Problem
 

I recently completed the installation of a brand new front spoiler on my '86 Carrera with less than pleasing results. The spoiler itself was attached with a minimum of fuss using the hardware supplied with the kit but the bottom lip of the spoiler after attachment appeared distinctly "wavy",------- a far cry from the smooth continuous curve I had expected.

My solution, using a suitable adhesive, was to attach two aluminium strips to the inside edge of the spoiler. These strips (1.6mm by 20mm by 800mm) were held in place by a number of small clamps while the adhesive cured with the end result exceeding expectations,------- the bottom lip now presented as a nice smooth curve.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1405111327.jpg
Plenty of small clamps needed!


http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1405111419.jpg
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1405111461.jpg
Clamps removed and excess adhesive trimmed.


http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1405111570.jpg
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1405111610.jpg
The end result.

The adhesive used-----Sikaflex221----- forms a strong bond between aluminium and rubber and has the advantage of remaining flexible after curing allowing for the different expansion/contraction rates of the two materials. Another plus is that excess adhesive is easily trimmed off with a razor.

I recommend this fix to anyone who has experienced similar problems.

Great solution. Thanks for posting your method. And when you invariably hit something will the metal spring back or will you have to bend back into shape? And when you go over something like a parking bumper with the spoiler and the bumper is behind the spoiler any concerns of the metal catching on the object and ripping the spoiler ? Not a Debbie Downer but will use the same process on mine if you are confident it will withstand the crap spoilers deal with

RSBob,-------Naturally I thought of the downside(s) you have pointed out but it was a case of going the way I did or having to continually look at the spoiler the way it was. I chose the former!

I used the thinnest aluminium strip I could consistent with its ability to to force the rubber lip into its proper shape as well as using a flexible adhesive. I am confident the adhesive is not so strong as to preclude separation from the rubber in the event of hitting something like a speed bump but time will tell. I aim to be even more vigilant when approaching situations which may damage the spoiler!

Thankyou for your reply.

Appreciate your candor. Hope you have a successful result.

the reason it is wavy is because the holes aren't appropriately spaced you may need to open them up a little so it can settle in its natural position. I had a template to do mine which helped and have no wavy results at all.

I'm sure that may be the case with some spoilers but not with mine,------ the spoiler lip was in the "wavy" condition I described even before fitting to the car. All the mounting holes lined up perfectly. I was of the opinion that all would be well after tightening the fasteners but no joy, and hence the fix I posted!

Well done ref. your spoiler and beware of those speed bumps!