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Old 01-18-2015, 11:46 PM   #144 (permalink)
redneck
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Join Date: Jun 2009
Location: SC Lowcountry
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Geo XL1 - '94 Geo Metro
Team Metro
Boat tails and more mods
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Quote:
Originally Posted by dirtydave View Post
Any updates on the status of the boattail?

Any tips for me to copy the style?
Im planning on using screws and big washers + tape. Does that sound like a good idea?
Structurally, the boat tail is still strong and doing great. The foam covering is holding up fairly well considering that it's exposed to the elements 24/7. There is some cracking and degrading of the surface.


Tips;

1/2" EMT works great for the frame. It is light and easy to bend and weld. Build the frame with lots of triangle bracing for extra strength. Attach frame to the vehicle at several places for increased strength.

Do not use Gorilla tape as it shrinks and stretches badly.

3M duct tape is not much better or UV resistant and fails fairly quick also. (I'm going to try reinforced aluminumized HVAC duct tape next time I retape)

Screws with fender washers should be ok. However, every install is different.


Once I get to the point that I'm satisfied. I'm going to replace the foam with more permanent materials like aluminum and fiberglass.


Hope that helps.




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The Following 4 Users Say Thank You to redneck For This Useful Post:
aerohead (01-20-2015), Cd (02-03-2015), dirtydave (01-20-2015), Weather Spotter (02-05-2015)