The Body Modifications!

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This section is dedicated to body repair and modifications. Due to the age of the 4th generation Accords (1990-1993) most of the vehicles out there will likely require some cosmetic attention.

When planning body repair and/or freshening of the paint, make sure to plan ahead. Any aftermarket body parts such as spoilers, ground effects or complete bumper skins should be installed at the same time. Performing all the upgrades at ones, will ensure a better fit, and some savings in cost.

What was supposed to be a simple re-paint, has turned into slightly more aggressive modification of my car. I wanted a clean and simple look with slight "touring car" (BTTC, DTM) overtones, so Wings West "BigMouth TypII" was selected. The features that attracted me to that bumper, were the polyurathane construction (flexible and more durable than fiberglass), the clearance (the bumper sits almost level with stock side skirts) and overall styling that compliments the car. I originally considered a Grounds Designs "Black Widow" body kit, but the sideskirts and rear bumper were not appealing in style and front bumper on it's own looked too low. Grounds Design kit is also made out of fiberglass and since my vehicle is a daily driver, I preffered the durability of the WingsWest front bumper.

To match the smoothness of the front bumper cover, side mouldings and rear bumper were shaved. The roof rails (rain-driprails) were also shaved, along with shaving the power antenna on driver's side rear quarter panel which resulted in a roof mounted amplified Fuba antenna. These modifications result in a much simplified, smoother and chunkier look of the car. I'm really happy with these modifications, however, due to the labour intensive procedure and lack of protection on the doors especially, I would say the cost and "day-to-day" durability are somewhat compromised. My car went "reconstructive" surgery as it also required a new windshield and a new hood. These items were brand new "aftermarket" quality and can be found in any local auto-body supplies shop.

For installation of the new front bumper skin, I have chosen to use an "aftermarket" re-bar and cushion, as well as O.E.M. front bumper "shock" assemblies. This resulted in a complete new front bumper assembly. To lower the installation cost, one may re-use the re-bar and shock assembly from the original bumper.

Parts used:
- WingsWest "Big Mouth Typ II" front bumper (P/N 890428),
- Fuba "Betaflex-D" amplified roof antenna (P/N not available).

NOTE: Body repair, re-paint and modifications are procedures that are difficult and for proper finish they require proffesional help. When comparing shop rates, ensure that materials quoted in question are of similar quality. Some modifications may compromise the use or durability of the car.

I'm happy with the results of the body repair, alteration and repaint. The car looks more modern than previously, simplicity of it giving the car a purporseful and unique appearance. Adding a darker "chocolaty" mica pearl to the clearcoat also compliments the base coat of factory "Capuccino Brown" colour. The final result is a car with more aggressive front look, plain profile and sophisticated rear look thanks to the shaved bumper moulding and badges.

Special thanks to Central Collision in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. If you're looking to update and "spice up" your automobile, I recommend you giving them a call.

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