Velox
Well-Known Member
Just in case anyone wanted to know how to do a carbon fiber wrap on the handles in a coupe, here is a quick DIY. I saw this post, which made me want to do it. This doesn't seem like the type of forum where people get upset for "idea theft," but I do not intend to suggest this was my idea. I only wanted to do this after I saw that post. Thanks, TheSlowAndTheSerious.
First, take off the handle. To do this, get a trim removal tool or a slotted screw driver with tape over it (to prevent scratches) and simply pry it off. I would suggest starting from the skinny point (the right side in this photo)
Before
After the piece is removed, clean it to get the best adhesive bond. I used cotton balls and Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol). Be sure the surface is completely dry before applying the wrap.
You'll need the carbon fiber wrap, an application tool, and a heat gun. I'm using a 3M brand tool and wrap and a random hobby heat gun. With sharp curves like this, a heat source is imperative in order to get the wrap to be smooth and tight.
Cut out a piece of the wrap to fit the piece. I went a little too big just to be sure I had enough to wrap around.
Apply the wrap. It's hard to photograph how this is done. But start in the center and apply the wrap. Then heat up a section and pull and rub it tight along the piece. The heat will make the wrap loosen up to be molded, then harden more than before it was treated to hold its place. These pieces took me about 30 minutes together and I suggest taking your time to make sure everything is smooth.
After it's wrapped (back)
Trim away the excess in the rear. Leave just enough to wrap around and “grip” the back of the piece. This will prevent the wrap from flaking up on the corners and looking shitty. Make sure the clips remain functional so the piece can be reattached. I know my back doesn't look very clean, but I tried to leave a lot of material on the back to increase the strength and to make it less likely that the wrap would come undone or wrinkle.
All done.
Now repeat on the other handle.
Reinstall by lining up the clips and pushing it into place in the door. If it doesn't fit, be sure to trim away the wrap from the clips in the back - the material can prevent the clips from operating as they're intended.
I assume this is what some viewers may be thinking:
1) Why did I need a tutorial to see that?
- In case you've never seen carbon fiber wrap applied. It doesn't hurt to post a DIY
2) Wow, rice much?
- You're viewing a Honda Civic forum; your argument is invalid. Also, this clip sums up my opinion on the modifications I choose to do to my cars.
So yeah, if anyone didn't know how to do that... now you do
- Velox
First, take off the handle. To do this, get a trim removal tool or a slotted screw driver with tape over it (to prevent scratches) and simply pry it off. I would suggest starting from the skinny point (the right side in this photo)
Before
After the piece is removed, clean it to get the best adhesive bond. I used cotton balls and Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol). Be sure the surface is completely dry before applying the wrap.
You'll need the carbon fiber wrap, an application tool, and a heat gun. I'm using a 3M brand tool and wrap and a random hobby heat gun. With sharp curves like this, a heat source is imperative in order to get the wrap to be smooth and tight.
Cut out a piece of the wrap to fit the piece. I went a little too big just to be sure I had enough to wrap around.
Apply the wrap. It's hard to photograph how this is done. But start in the center and apply the wrap. Then heat up a section and pull and rub it tight along the piece. The heat will make the wrap loosen up to be molded, then harden more than before it was treated to hold its place. These pieces took me about 30 minutes together and I suggest taking your time to make sure everything is smooth.
After it's wrapped (back)
Trim away the excess in the rear. Leave just enough to wrap around and “grip” the back of the piece. This will prevent the wrap from flaking up on the corners and looking shitty. Make sure the clips remain functional so the piece can be reattached. I know my back doesn't look very clean, but I tried to leave a lot of material on the back to increase the strength and to make it less likely that the wrap would come undone or wrinkle.
All done.
Now repeat on the other handle.
Reinstall by lining up the clips and pushing it into place in the door. If it doesn't fit, be sure to trim away the wrap from the clips in the back - the material can prevent the clips from operating as they're intended.
I assume this is what some viewers may be thinking:
1) Why did I need a tutorial to see that?
- In case you've never seen carbon fiber wrap applied. It doesn't hurt to post a DIY
2) Wow, rice much?
- You're viewing a Honda Civic forum; your argument is invalid. Also, this clip sums up my opinion on the modifications I choose to do to my cars.
So yeah, if anyone didn't know how to do that... now you do
- Velox
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