i have a carbon fiber exhaust cap for my ap1 that isn't fitting exactly as i had planned.
it is held on with double sided tape which hasn't been holding up that well (pulling away from the bumper) after the recent change in weather here on the east coast, so i'm looking for something more sturdy.

(not to mention there's also the possibility of someone just walking up and yanking it off my car at any time, so i'm looking for ideas...)

has anyone drilled carbon fiber before with success? any recommendations to maybe using some type of epoxy, glue, different kind of tape, etc? i did a search, but didnt find a whole lot....

 

I took a Dremmel cone grinder to my CF cooling plate and it was surprisingly easy to work with. I was afraid of cracking or chipping the glaze but it cut nicely with no problems. (Seibon cooling plate). I'm sure different carbon fiber finishes might vary, though.

 

carbon fiber is really easy to drill and cut. If you drill, just start out with a small bit then go to larger bits gradually. don't apply too much initial pressure so you don't crack the clear coat.

 

What we have always used are these step bits - Irvin makes an acceptable one. Be sure to place a sufficient quantity of masking tape on both sides and centerpunch first.

 

thanks guys. i appreciate the help.

last question: after you make the cuts/ drilled the holes, did you need to finish the edges up with anything? or will it be good to go as is?

 

What I always did when I would do exhaust guards for Evos would be to use masking tape and a REALLY sharp drill bit. I taped the edges, measure where I wanted to drill, marked it on the tape and went at it with a fresh bit. Never had an issue with cracking or needing to to any finishing work. They always came out great.

 

I paint the exposed edge with modeler's "ModelMaster Anthracite Gray Metallic" paint to seal the exposed carbon.....the color matches perfectly.