Cracked V-Limited Front Lip? - DIY Fix

**Vez** · 05-14-2007 06:40 PM

I know I started explaining what I did in another thread, but I thought I'd make this one since I finally finished it. I apologize for the cut and paste, but it seems silly to rewrite this first part...

I snapped my lip in two and didn't want to shell out the $450 for a new one, so this is what I did:

I bought 4 1"x4" long pieces of metal with 4 staggered holes already drilled in them (bought it at Lowe's). I then used two of the pieces to make a sort of splint for the flat, top part that sits flush with my fender (the piece where the original bolts go through) and the bottom part where it bends back toward the car. I then drilled three holes (in the top and bottom) and bolted the splints onto the lip. I then did the same for the bottom, but only used the metal piece on the inside since you'd see the outer one if it were used.

PICTURES: http://www.clubwrx.net/photopost/sho...0/ppuser/30465

For some reason, gremlins kept me from posting the pics here. Sorry.

**Vez** · 05-14-2007 06:44 PM

So, I made my first attempt at using bondo. I picked up some satin black spray paint (for plastics) and some professional glazing and spot putty...

I bought the putty at Advanced Auto Parts and the paint at Ace Hardware.

**Vez** · 05-14-2007 06:54 PM

I mixed the bondo as directed and filled in the crack and the scratches with the putty. I then wiped off most of the excess with a putty board (most any staight edge would do). I left a little extra on where the crack and the scratches were which I sanded down using first 220 sandpaper, then 320, then 600, then 1500. The 1500 seemed pointless since it was about as abrasive as printer paper. Definitely a learning experience. :P

**Vez** · 05-14-2007 07:08 PM

Finally, I painted it. Admittedly, if I were to do it over again, I'd spend a lot of time sanding. If you look at the crack in a certain light, it's obvious that it was fixed. I think you can make it looks almost brand new if you spend some time sanding it properly... The final touch was when I put on the aluminum STI badge I ordered to complete the original look. Despite it's imperfections, I'm very happy with how it turned out and I spent a total of about $30.