O.C.D. Posted March 22, 2013 Share Posted March 22, 2013 I hate the mustache and chrome like most of you. So I snagged a Crown Vic grille off of the bay, ordered an '08 badge for Subaru, and got a second hand OEM grille that was perfect. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2522_zps8cd9f050.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2524_zpsbd6f5fe8.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2529_zpsb3546328.jpg It is bigger like I wanted: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2531_zps830d9f26.jpg Hacked up the CV grille: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2526_zps42096768.jpg Then hacked up the OEM grille: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2527_zps8052f65c.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2528_zps0427e96b.jpg Testing: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2528_zps0427e96b.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2532_zpsbea9f4d5.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2534_zpsdc807766.jpg Used the rest of the grille for all the filler panels: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2598_zps5f13a03f.jpg Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
O.C.D. Posted March 22, 2013 Author Share Posted March 22, 2013 Now, here is a quick way to get rid of the chrome. But you first have to know, this is real plated chrome with a copper/nickel base to it. So it is thick and sharp and crappy to deal with. I tried bleach, Easy-Off and then I came across heating it up. Using a MAPP torch you can learn to heat it and it will separate from the plastic: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2600_zpsc454001d.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2604_zps04dd881f.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2601_zps26e77ad7.jpg But be careful cause you guessed it, plastic melts. But you can reform it again if not too bad like I had to do. Quick sanding: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2605_zps43dd7655.jpg Quick test fit: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2818_zpsc27e675a.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2817_zpsa957f279.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_2814_zpsdf212101.jpg Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
O.C.D. Posted March 22, 2013 Author Share Posted March 22, 2013 So, how do I fill those missing places with the new panels? Perma Poxy Plastic Welder to the rescue - used 4 tubes at $7 each, ouch: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3019_zps6caf6e2a.jpg Made joining cutouts for strength: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3018_zpsb977dfd4.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3017_zps9eb69f16.jpg Used the Badge area from the Mustache cause it was curved. Then I softened it up and made each piece fit perfectly: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3020_zps6b092198.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3021_zpsda289ced.jpg And the backsides: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3023_zpsf35e384e.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3024_zps20dfe97c.jpg Almost there: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3025_zps548d70e1.jpg Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
O.C.D. Posted March 22, 2013 Author Share Posted March 22, 2013 Almost perfect: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3072_zps81c13f12.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3075_zps1e605f4b.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3074_zps991d0737.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3073_zps1a7a07db.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3076_zpscf9fdac7.jpg Now to fill the ledge. I am so opposed to Bondo for something of this nature as it is not strong enough and will crack under heating cycles. Plus it is too thick of a void to fill. I thought and though then decided that Plastic Welder could to it better: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3077_zps349d0fcf.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3079_zps8a143f6b.jpg Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nolmers06LGT Posted March 22, 2013 Share Posted March 22, 2013 Nice.. I'm going to borrow a few ideas from you when I refinish my grill. My first attempt turned out... bad. Oh well; I learned not to rush body work, or even attempt it for that matter Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
O.C.D. Posted March 22, 2013 Author Share Posted March 22, 2013 Time for a test fit. But during the build I bought some mesh. I like the idea of a mesh with a floating badge better than the honeycomb. SO I got some aluminum hex from a dealer on the Bay. Which one do you like better? In the end the grille will be matched with RBP paint like the body. The inner grille will be flat black or gloss. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3083_zpscc653c18.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/IMG_3080_zps2c9916c0.jpg Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
O.C.D. Posted March 22, 2013 Author Share Posted March 22, 2013 Placeholder Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
No DRFT Posted March 24, 2013 Share Posted March 24, 2013 Good work! I like the honeycomb better. I have no control over drippie. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
12sechatch Posted March 24, 2013 Share Posted March 24, 2013 I like the honeycomb more, but the fact that the mesh is silver is really hurting it's case. Once the mesh is painted black, it would probably be a toss up... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
O.C.D. Posted March 24, 2013 Author Share Posted March 24, 2013 I am torn cause the honeycomb looks pretty good. But I agree that the mesh will look great when black. Anyone else have a favorite? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cryo Posted March 24, 2013 Share Posted March 24, 2013 I like the mesh personally * when black* Dave [sIGPIC][/sIGPIC] Providing unmatched customer service and a Premium level of Dyno/E-tuning to the Community cryotuneperformance@yahoo.com facebook.com/cryotuneperformance. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
06LegacyRBP Posted March 25, 2013 Share Posted March 25, 2013 Just make 2 and whichever one u dont like ill take Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
O.C.D. Posted March 25, 2013 Author Share Posted March 25, 2013 I like the mesh personally * when black* Dave Me too Dave. I am thinking mesh. Just make 2 and whichever one u dont like ill take I have about 15 hours into this little project, lol. I couldn't make another. Ah hell I guess I could. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nolmers06LGT Posted March 25, 2013 Share Posted March 25, 2013 My vote is for black mesh. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Perscitus Posted March 29, 2013 Share Posted March 29, 2013 Honeycomb! Great write-up BTW. Thanks! I'm doing something very similar to mine. Source a used grill, and some honeycomb, getting ready to cut. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
O.C.D. Posted April 1, 2013 Author Share Posted April 1, 2013 Well I guess I inadvertently wanted the mesh because I complete prepped and primed it this last weekend. The back of the grille (think lip) is smoothed and flush all the way around. That means the mesh is ready to install. I was really happy as I only have 4 small pinholes to fill with glazing putty at this point and then I can add the RBP paint. I'll have to post some picks of it all primed tonight. Looks great!!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Perscitus Posted April 3, 2013 Share Posted April 3, 2013 Cool. Can't wait to see it. If you're not going to use the honeycomb, would you mind send it to me? How much shipped to 11109, if you'd consider it? I have some pics of my custom grill work-in-progress I'll post them up tonight. Very similar idea, for the 5th gen. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
O.C.D. Posted April 7, 2013 Author Share Posted April 7, 2013 Perscitus - I actually hacked it up last night, dang. I needed the center for the emblem to mount to. Sorry. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
O.C.D. Posted April 7, 2013 Author Share Posted April 7, 2013 Well, the grille is almost finished. I worked on getting the hexagon mesh in last couple of nights. I wanted it removable but that was not looking good. So I plastic welded it in. I could stand on this thing, lol. Filled in the small pinholes with glazing putty. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo5_zps8591fe12.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo4_zps7a48af0e.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo3_zps284a068b.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo2_zps9e02df36.jpg Next was the mesh. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo1_zps9779b880.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo4_zps560271ef.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo5_zpsbc02a85b.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo2_zps78b98643.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo1_zpse3aed362.jpg Almost finished! http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo2_zps9d205b95.jpg Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Brprs Posted April 7, 2013 Share Posted April 7, 2013 You should make me one Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
O.C.D. Posted April 7, 2013 Author Share Posted April 7, 2013 I would but it has taken up a lot of time and money. Grille - $60 Plastic welder - $40 Honeycomb - $20 Mesh - $28 Factory paint - $20 Auto clear coat - $15 Badge from SOA - $42 Primer/filler - $15 So what is that, $240!!! Damn...lol Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Brprs Posted April 7, 2013 Share Posted April 7, 2013 - 62 dollars. I'd use my badge that's on my grill currently and paint it myself for cheaper then that Get to work! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
O.C.D. Posted April 8, 2013 Author Share Posted April 8, 2013 I have a tendency to over do things, thus my screen name. If you are going to do it...... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
O.C.D. Posted April 30, 2013 Author Share Posted April 30, 2013 So, the grill is completed!!!! And I must say that I am way impressed. More so than I thought I would be. So, last build post. Had to find a way to mount the emblem to the grill. Thought and thought about it but never really liked some ideas. Then it hit me. I needed to use the mounting tape to my advantage. So I designed a metal plate to secure to it. There were 4 holes to use screws to mount to the bak of the mesh. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo1_zpsb07968be.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo2_zpse427cacb.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo4_zpsb6d5b2ca.jpg Then I thought standoffs but they would secure it enough. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo3_zps15bdba02.jpg So I made a backing plate that would use locknuts. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo4_zps918a3016.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo3_zpsa6919e12.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo2_zpsc1f930d6.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo2_zpsa95ee11e.jpg Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
O.C.D. Posted April 30, 2013 Author Share Posted April 30, 2013 In the mean time I was painting away. final primer down to 600 grit and then basecoat/clear. 5 coats base and about 6 coats clear. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo4_zpsfa4fcb84.jpg Painted emblem mount. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo2_zps4fd92f1c.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo1_zps83fb9743.jpg And voila!!! http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo4_zpsd4911a28.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/bluej/Legacy%20GT/photo3_zps8f1eb32d.jpg Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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