Most of the time, you have to drill holes to put on carbon fiber side skirts. However, whether or not you need to drill holes depends on how you install them and how the side skirt is made. Here is a thorough analysis:
I. Situations that need drilling
Method of fixing with screws
If the side skirt is held on with screws, holes need to be drilled on the inside of the vehicle fender or the edge of the step panel. Then, screws and nuts should be used to hold it in place. For instance, to put on the BMW M5's carbon fiber side skirt, holes need to be drilled in the right places on the original car or at the hole marks on the back of the side skirt. Then, screws should be used to hold it in place.
Features of carbon fiber board
The carbon fiber board is strong, but you can fix it by drilling holes. When you drill, be sure to:
Board thickness: You can drill thin carbon fiber boards (usually less than 1mm) with regular tools. For thick boards (greater than 1mm), it's best to use laser drilling or pre-drilled holes to avoid damaging the structure.
Drilling position: Stay away from areas that are under a lot of stress to keep the strength.
Drill size and number: The drill size shouldn't be too big, and the number shouldn't be too high, or else the overall performance will suffer.
II. Situations where there is no drilling
Method of gluing
Some side skirts are made to be installed with glue, like epoxy resin glue, which sticks directly to the surface of the car. For instance, when putting on the Honda Clive's side skirt, an integrated tape is used to stick it on, and no drilling is needed. However, the surface of the car must be clean and dry to make the tape stick better.
Cl or clamp fixation
Some side skirts can be attached to the body of the car with clutches or clamps, so there is no need to drill or use glue. This method, on the other hand, has strict requirements for how well the side skirt fits with the body of the vehicle and is not very useful.
III. Tips for putting it together
Pick the method of fixing based on how the side skirt is made.
If the side skirt has screw holes or the original vehicle has holes that match, screw fixation should be used first to make sure it stays stable.
If the side skirt is made of glue, pick a good glue and follow the directions to make sure it doesn't come off.
Things to keep in mind when drilling
Choosing the right tool: When using an electric drill, you should use a drill bit that matches the screws so that the holes are not too big or too small.
Safety tips: Don't drill too close to vehicle internal circuits and structures to avoid damage.
Cleaning: After drilling, you need to clean up the mess to make sure the side skirt fits tightly against the body of the car.
Help or installation by a professional
If you don't know how to drill or install adhesive, it's best to get help from a professional modification shop so that the side skirt doesn't come loose or the body of the car doesn't get damaged.