You must be logged in to rate content!
3 minute read
Pillarless Grill Mod
Compliments of Kirv @ iwsti.com
7-30-2006
First remove the grill, it’s easy there are 4 clips along the top edge and two clips down below near the corners. Push the tabs down and push the grill out, you’ll need a screwdriver to push down the lower tabs, be careful because they are not very sturdy.
You can see the tabs in this picture
On the back of the grill, pop out the four metal tabs that hold down the mesh (shown in this fuzzy pic) and remove the mesh.
Hack off the pillar using a dremel, or if you don’t have one, use a utility knife and drill like I did.
Holy CRAP, it looks like I’ll need to throw it out!?
Never fear, file, grind, file, grind, file, grind, keep going until it’s smooth, this part takes a while. I used the dremel cutting ring in my drill, an actual dremel would work better than a drill.
Then use sandpaper, starting with 80 or 100 grit working your way up to 220 then 400 or 600 grit to polish it. This part takes a while too.
Now clean it and let dry. I just used formula 409 to clean it off. Make sure you don't leave any residue or the paint won't stick.
Paint with 3 coats of Rustoleum textured black for plastics. (I used plain black, it’s glossier, and shows any imperfections in the modification, textured black will be more forgiving).
Replace the mesh and its four metal holding clips. The STi badge is held on with two nuts, not pictured because it will be obvious once you see the back of the mesh.
Ready to go!
To put back on the car, pop in the 6 clips and you’re done. Enjoy the cleaner look.
