The Ultimate Guide to Car Fiberglass Body Kits
Looking to transform your ride into a head-turning masterpiece? Car fiberglass body kits are your gateway to custom car styling, race-ready weight reduction, and even classic vehicle restoration. This guide combines insights from top names like www.bodykits.com, usbody.com, outlawrods.com, and more, into one resource designed to help you choose, install, and maintain the best fiberglass body kits for any project.
Comparison Table: Types and Applications of Car Fiberglass Body Kits
| Type of Kit | Material | Typical Applications | Advantages | Example Domains |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Body Kits | Fiberglass | Street, track, restoration | Comprehensive style change, lightweight | www.bodykits.com, www.carid.com |
| Ground Effects & Aero Kits | Fiberglass, FRP | Racing, performance street cars | Improved aerodynamics, custom appearance | www.bodykits.com, rallybodykits.com |
| Replica/Classic Kits | Fiberglass | Restoring vintage & muscle cars | Cost-effective, preserves legacy | outlawrods.com, russnomorestreetrods.com, www.acautos.com |
| Custom/One-Off Kits | Fiberglass, Carbon Mix | Show cars, unique builds | Unique designs, tailored fit | artfiberglass.com, glorydayfiberglass.com |
| Individual Parts (Fenders, Hoods, Spoilers) | Fiberglass, Polyurethane | Targeted upgrades or repairs | Easy replacement, lightweight | usbody.com, www.speedwaymotors.com |
Understanding Fiberglass Body Kits
Fiberglass body kits have been a staple in the automotive aftermarket for decades. Manufactured by brands like www.bodykits.com and outlawrods.com, these kits are crafted from woven glass fibers bound with resin, offering impressive strength while being light in weight. This section unpacks the history, materials, and evolution of fiberglass in car customization.
The use of fiberglass began in racing, where reducing weight and quickly repairing damage were critical. Enthusiasts quickly adopted it for custom street vehicles, classic car replicas, and even off-road applications. Modern techniques blend fiberglass with other resins or carbon for enhanced durability, as offered by www.carid.com and rallybodykits.com.
Types of Fiberglass Body Kits
Full Body Kits
Full body kits completely alter your vehicle’s appearance, swapping out factory panels for aggressive, sleek fiberglass replacements. Companies like www.bodykits.com and www.carid.com set industry standards with kits covering bumpers, side skirts, fenders, and sometimes even roofs and doors. These are popular for both street cars and show vehicles aiming for dramatic makeovers.
Ground Effects and Aero Kits
Focused on improved aerodynamics, ground effects use side skirts, splitters, diffusers, and rear lips made of fiberglass or blends (like FRP). Rallybodykits.com and www.bodykits.com produce specialist kits for rally and racing applications, emphasizing both aesthetic appeal and track-tested functionality. These aren’t just for looks—they can enhance downforce and stability at speed.
Replica and Classic Kits
Restoration enthusiasts flock to replica fiberglass kits for vintage cars. Outlawrods.com, russnomorestreetrods.com, and www.acautos.com offer meticulously crafted bodies for street rods, ’32 Fords, classic Chevys, or even Willys coupes. These allow for authentic-looking restoration without costly or rare OEM metalwork, often with options for matching chassis or roller frames.
Custom and One-Off Kits
For those seeking a one-of-a-kind presence, custom fiberglass kits are available from artfiberglass.com and glorydayfiberglass.com. Built to customer specifications or special event requirements, these kits range from wild show car bodies to specialized racing components. Attention to fitment and bespoke styling is top priority.
Individual Fiberglass Parts
For targeted upgrades or repairs, you can source specific fiberglass components—like hoods, spoilers, or fenders—from usbody.com or www.speedwaymotors.com. This modular approach allows owners to tweak their car’s looks, update damaged pieces, or add race-inspired features without a full kit replacement.
Choosing the Best Fiberglass Body Kit for Your Car
Selecting the right fiberglass body kit depends on your vehicle, intended use, budget, and personal style.
- Style & Purpose: Are you aiming for a race-inspired look, restoring a classic, or simply want an eye-catching street car?
- Fitment: Check compatibility—brand sites like www.bodykits.com or usbody.com list supported models and fitment notes.
- Material Quality: Not all fiberglass is equal. Kits from vendors like outlawrods.com or www.carid.com use premium-rated materials for strength, flexibility, and longevity.
- Installation Difficulty: Some kits require extensive modification or professional installation. Assess your skills and consult support from sources like www.speedwaymotors.com.
- Aftermarket Support: Opt for manufacturers with excellent customer service and available replacement parts.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
While installation difficulty varies, most fiberglass kits follow similar procedures. Here is a basic guide to what’s involved:
- Preparation: Remove factory body panels and inspect for rust or structural issues.
- Test Fit: Before drilling or modifying, position the fiberglass panels on your car. Adjust as necessary for the best alignment.
- Trimming and Sanding: Fiberglass edges often need cleaning up for exact fitment. Use appropriate tools and safety gear.
- Mounting Hardware: Mark, drill, and install brackets or screws as provided by your kit manufacturer.
- Bodywork: Fill, prime, and sand any gaps or imperfections. Fiberglass body kits will be raw; smoothing/prepping is key.
- Painting: Use automotive-grade paint designed for fiberglass. Consider professional painting for the best finish.
- Final Assembly: Install all pieces, adjust fit, and reinstall mirrors, lights, or trim as needed.
- Inspection: Double-check secure mounting, and test-drive to confirm there are no clearance or vibration issues.
Manufacturers like www.carid.com and outlawrods.com provide detailed instructions and technical support—always consult these resources for kit-specific tips.
Customization & Finishing Tips
Beyond installation, the true artistry of fiberglass body kit projects lies in refinement and finishing:
- Body Lines and Panel Gaps: Spend extra time on alignment for a seamless appearance. Fit perfection separates good kits from show stoppers.
- Painting: Always use flexible primers and paints formulated for fiberglass to avoid cracking or flaking.
- Blending with Non-Kit Parts: If combining original panels with new fiberglass sections, blend paint and shapes to maintain a cohesive look.
- Reinforcement: For high-stress areas (mounting points, door hinges), consider adding additional fiberglass layers or reinforcement plates.
- Accessories: Augment your kit with lighting upgrades, grilles, and wings from www.bodykits.com or artfiberglass.com for extra flair.
Maintenance and Care for Fiberglass Body Kits
Proper care ensures your investment lasts years:
- Washing: Use soft cloths and non-abrasive car soap. Avoid harsh brushes that can scratch the gel coat or paint.
- Polishing: Regularly polish and wax with products safe for fiberglass finishes to enhance shine and provide UV protection.
- Inspect for Cracks: The lightweight nature of fiberglass makes it susceptible to cracks from impacts or stress. Inspect regularly and repair promptly.
- Repairs: Small cracks or chips can be fixed with DIY fiberglass repair kits. For major damage, consult a specialist.
- Weatherproofing: Ensure all mounting points are sealed to prevent water ingress, especially important in humid or corrosive environments.
Technical Comparison Table: Features of Fiberglass Body Kits
| Feature | Fiberglass Kits | Polyurethane Kits | Carbon Fiber Kits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lightweight | Heavier than fiberglass | Lightest overall |
| Customizability | High (easy to modify) | Medium (less easy to trim) | High |
| Cost | Affordable | Mid to high | High to very high |
| Durability | Good (can crack) | Highest (flexible) | Excellent (rigid, brittle) |
| Finish Quality | Ready for sanding/paint | Often paint-ready | Exposed weave or painted |
| Suitability | Shows, racing, street | Street, minor performance | Racing, high-end street |
| Common Brands | www.bodykits.com, usbody.com, outlawrods.com, rallybodykits.com | Various | www.carid.com |
Pros and Cons of Fiberglass Body Kits
Pros:
- Highly customizable and moldable into complex shapes.
- Cost-effective for both full kits and individual parts.
- Lightweight for better performance and fuel economy.
- Easily repairable after damage.
Cons:
- Can crack or chip more easily than flexible materials.
- Some kits require significant fitting and finishing.
- Paint and finish may fade over time without proper maintenance.
- Not suitable as structural components; only for bodywork.
Notable Manufacturers and Vendors
Each fiberglass kit maker or vendor brings different strengths to the market:
- www.bodykits.com: Widest variety of kits for import and domestic vehicles, known for value and support.
- usbody.com: Massive selection, especially for classic or American muscle cars and trucks.
- outlawrods.com: Specializes in American street rod replica bodies and chassis.
- rallybodykits.com: Go-to source for rally-inspired designs and motorsport authenticity.
- artfiberglass.com: Custom fabrication for trucks and racing applications.
- russnomorestreetrods.com, www.acautos.com: Classic and collectible fiberglass replicas.
- www.speedwaymotors.com: Supplies standard and racing fiberglass bodies.
- glorydayfiberglass.com: Boutique manufacturer known for quality and attention to detail.
- www.carid.com: Extensive catalog, including carbon, urethane, and fiberglass options.
Related Video
Conclusion
Car fiberglass body kits allow you to unlock new visual styles, improve performance, and restore the classics with affordability and creativity. Whether you’re hunting for show-winning looks from www.bodykits.com, restoring a street rod from outlawrods.com, or adding motorsport edge with rallybodykits.com, the options are vast. With proper selection, installation, and maintenance, fiberglass body kits can make your ride truly unique for years to come.
FAQ
What is a fiberglass body kit?
A fiberglass body kit is a set of vehicle panels made from woven glass fibers and resin, designed to replace or upgrade the exterior style, improve aerodynamics, or lighten the car compared to factory metal counterparts.
Are fiberglass kits durable enough for daily driving?
Yes, quality fiberglass kits, when properly installed, withstand regular use. However, they can be more susceptible to impact damage than flexible polyurethane, so care is needed in harsh conditions.
Can I install a fiberglass body kit myself?
With basic tools and mechanical skill, many enthusiasts install kits at home. Some extensive kits may require professional fitting, especially where trimming or filling are necessary.
How do fiberglass kits compare to carbon fiber or polyurethane?
Fiberglass offers a balance of affordability, weight savings, and ease of customization. Carbon fiber is lighter but much more expensive, while polyurethane offers better flexibility and resistance to cracking.
Do I need to prep and paint my fiberglass kit?
Nearly all fiberglass kits come unfinished or in a gel-coat that requires sanding, priming, and painting for best results. Use paints suitable for flexible materials to prevent problems.
Will adding a body kit affect my vehicle’s value?
Quality, tastefully installed kits may increase appeal to enthusiasts but can also lower resale to mainstream buyers. Always keep original parts for easy reversal.
What vehicles can use fiberglass body kits?
There’s a huge range: from imports and domestics at www.bodykits.com, street rods at outlawrods.com, rally cars from rallybodykits.com, to classic replications from russnomorestreetrods.com.
Can fiberglass panels replace rusted metal panels?
Yes, especially for classics where metal is hard to source. Fiberglass replicas (from sources like usbody.com or www.acautos.com) offer an effective restoration solution.
How are fiberglass cracks or chips repaired?
Use a fiberglass repair kit to fill and reinforce the area, then sand, prime, and repaint as needed. Most minor damage is easily fixed by DIY methods.
Are all fiberglass kits street legal?
Most kits are street legal if they retain necessary safety features (lights, mirrors, crash protection). Check your local laws before making modifications, especially if altering bumper height or lighting.
