DIY Network

Carbon-Fiber Interior: Dash Accents and Overlays From "Tricked Out" episode DTRK-201

	The dash center BEFORE the addition of carbon-fiber accents.
	The dash center AFTER.
	The center console BEFORE . . .
	. . .and AFTER.

In this episode of Tricked Out, the interior of a 1997 Honda Civic is dressed up with the coolest in carbon-fiber accessories. In this third segment, host Andrew Totolos adds some easy-to-install carbon-fiber accents to dress up the Civic's dash and interior.

Materials used in this episode:

In addition to standard auto-mechanic's tools (wrenches, ratchets, extenders, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, torque wrench, etc.), tools and materials used in this episode include:

Dash overlay kit
Headliner
Cargo cover
Shift knob
Emergency-brake handle
Panel-removal tool
Grease and wax remover
Fine-grain sandpaper (optional)
Spray paint made for fabric and vinyl (optional)
Fasteners
Adhesive promoter
Masking tape
Rubbing alcohol
Paper towels
Hacksaw or rotary tool
Cordless drill and screwdriver attachment

DIY Difficulty Rating for This Project: We gave this a difficulty rating of 3 on a 5-point intermediate-level scale. Experienced gear-heads should have no problem.

Safety Alert: As a standard safety precaution, always disconnect the vehicle's negative battery cable before you begin work on any electrical or mechanical components.

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Materials used in this segment:

Dash overlay kit
Grease and wax remover
Masking tape
Alcohol
Paper towels
Razor knife
Adhesion promoter
Protective gloves

	Figure B

Carbon-Fiber Overlay Kit

For our 1997 Civic, we picked up a six-piece overlay kit. Kits are different for every car model, and some manufacturers offer more or less pieces than others, so shop around to find one that suits your needs

• Take everything out of the kit and make sure all the parts are in good condition. The kit selected for our project (figure A) includes a piece that goes around the gauge cluster, one for the center of the dash at the radio, one for the center console, a piece that goes over the drink holder and two pieces that go around the dash vents.

• All the pieces are pre-glued, so installation is fairly simple and straightforward. Before peeling any of the backing from the parts, dry-fit the pieces in the car to make sure they fit properly (figure B).
  

  	Figure C
  	Figure D

• To get a good bond with pieces, make sure to clean the surfaces well. Use a wax and grease remover with a clean paper towel to clean all the surfaces (figure C).

• Wipe the residue away with a fresh paper towel before it dries.

• Go back over all surfaces a second time using a clean paper towel and rubbing alcohol.

  Tricked Out Tip: When cleaning grease remover from auto-interior surfaces using rubbing alcohol, be sure to avoid getting alcohol or cleaner on the clear plastic gauge cover as these could cause the plastic to "fog." To keep from "spreading the mess," fold your paper towel often to expose a clean surface.

• After alcohol evaporates, test surface to make sure it's ready for adhesion. Take a piece of masking tape and stick it to the area you just cleaned. If it sticks well (figure D), you're ready to go. If not, keep cleaning.
  

  	Figure E
  	Figure F

• Once the surfaces are completely cleaned, use a razor knife to pick up an edge of the protective backing sheet and pull it off at a sharp angle to prevent lifting the adhesive from the part. Place the part lightly in place for alignment (figure E). Once it's straight, press it in place.

• On larger pieces, start from the edge and work your way across.

• Note: Pieces that adhere to cushioned vinyl should also be prepped with a quality adhesion promoter before application. An adhesion promoter is a primer that produces good bond strength on difficult bonding surfaces. Be sure to wear protective rubber gloves when working with an adhesion promoter.

• As the parts are secured, test all switches and vents to make sure they function properly (figure F).
  

Important: Included in this summary are the steps in this automotive procedure as shown in the episode. These steps are general guidelines that are applicable to most vehicles. With any particular vehicle, there may be procedures, specifications, settings, tolerances, components, etc. that are specific to that vehicle. There are also variations according to the type and brand of upgrade-kit you select. Always consult your vehicle's service manual when undertaking significant automotive repairs, and read and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions that come with your kit or replacement parts.

RESOURCES :

Special Resources for Tricked Out episode 201

Vibrant Performance
Website: www.vibrantperformance.com

Topshop Co.
Website: www.topshopheadliners.com

DragonAutomotive.com
Website: www.dragonautomotive.com

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Order this book from Amazon.com.
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ISBN: 1884089526

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