Greetings,

I'm looking to create a pattern by utilizing the existing bumpers and side skirts of my car and re-shaping them, or rather adding to them perhaps, quite considerably.

The below pictures will hopefully serve to give you a general idea of what I'd like to accomplish...

Standard front view


Modified front view


Standard rear view


Modified rear view


My main question is what material would I preferrably use in making the patterns? I'd like to be able to retain the use of the original bumpers and side skirts and thus need to be able to create the pattern without damaging the standard items.

I'm also curious of how to go about making the patterns are perfectly symmetric on both sides of the center line? Please keep in mind that I will be doing this myself without any access to CAD programmes or CNC machinery, I'll be doing it in my garage using only tools that can be bought online or at the local hardware store (within sensible price ranges).

I'm aware of the fact that this may seem an ambitious project for a beginner, but we all need to start somewhere. If these pieces end up well I'll also be considering building a custom interior for the project.

I'd be very grateful for any input!

Alecci of Sweden

1999 Maserati 3200 GT
1999 Nissan Skyline GTR

I'm afraid I agree with the above method.  Skin mould, new part, modify part, remould.  I have a VX220 (opel speedster) and have done the same myself with a few panels.  It is A LOT of work but its all part of the fun.  The difficult part is being patient when you want to see the results of your efforts.  Put aside big blocks of time as you'll never do it in the odd hour here and there.  WRT making the additional parts, I have used the pattern board with good effect for this sort of thing but it isn't cheap.  YOu can draw on it which will help you get a nice symetrical part, you can bond to it if you take away too much, it really is a good material. 

Nice car by the way.  Always loved the boomerang rear lights on the 3200.  It was a big mistake by masser going for square ones on the later cars