Bumper Surgery

[53Vipette]

I finished closing out the remaining gaps in the bumper to the center ridge. Frankly, I'm glad to see that plate holder gone. Seeing it semi-completed helped me start to think about the other parts I need to work on now. I might only have a few days of working time into this bumper but I've got countless hours of thinking things through all day long. I guess that's how you end up with cool looking stuff, solid planning and an active imagination. Stay tuned for more on basic metal finishing steps, tips and then bumper bracket ideas.

Best of luck on your projects
Matt

[53Vipette]

So here is what the semi finished product looks like, hours went into metal finishing and re-blending everything. We are going with a brushed nickel finish on these bumpers so I hope that are similar in appearance now. All I have to say is that right now they look sinister in that lusterless finish. As the photos progress you can see the small amounts of progress to get them to the final looking product. I did start working on the bumper brackets too!


Pro-Tips:
-Hand sand when possible, I blended and finished out with 60 grit paper. It helps just give it that "look".
-The edges of welds might shrink in and be hard to blend out. I ground down the centers of the welds as to not gouge the surrounding areas, from there I added additional welds to "fill" the edges to help blend.
-Patience... If you don't have any, wait until you get a refill. Take a deep breath, drink a beer or get a hug... You will end up with a mess if you don't take your time. Trust me.
-Patience... I wasn't joking take your time.
-Be creative! Watch Bob Ross, go to an art museum or read old hot rod magazines! Don't worry you can do this!

































Bumper Brackets-

I used my CNC table to cut these out, you could use the stock ones if you don't mind that factory look. As far as this car goes we are using all custom stuff so factory bracketry won't work! The version I made are two way adjustable, they move the bumper up and down but also, in and out! For whatever reason there is a twist or tweak you can easily move it out. I forgot to take pics of the bumper mounted section. I might upload renderings of them so you get the idea.



















I can't wait to show you guys more in a few months!


Matt