GrossPolluter

iTrader: (1)

So I got a non sunroof top for my fc. I am now thinking about using this really strong epoxy I use at work to do carbon fiber roofs on bmws.

I posted because I am wondering if anyone had their insight, and I also wanted to know if anyone knew the type of silicone/glue/window weld they use on those areas where the roofs don't fit flush. You know, those thick slug looking areas where there is about 1/4 to 3/8" gap between the thin sheetmetal roof and the chassis underneath it. The areas that fit flush are spot welded, then a sealer is added from factory.
Also does anyone recommend a good epoxy?
Here are some reasons I'm thinking about not welding it in
1) warpage
2) weld contamination. The area where the top is welded factory is braze welded, my mig or tig would get contaminated. I don't have much brazing experience
3) thinning out the metal a lot after grinding down the weld
4) rust after I grind down the paint for welding, and the unprotected metal underneath ill never be able to protect

I'm thinking about this epoxy
1) less grinding
2) no warpage, the factory roof fits 98% perfect
3) no need to seam seal after

Now I just need to figure out that material they use from the chassis to the sheetmetal roof to support it a bit.

The epoxy we use at work is about $60 a tube and one is good for one roof. Plus you need the special gun to apply it. Its made by 3M, comes out torquise in color. So the only downside is the cost

misterstyx69

iTrader: (142)

Funny you mention this as I am just ready to do some FG on a hood and just got done using this stuff!
You can get another kind that has the 2 parts in one tube.
I got some from Napa..I think it was Permacoat or evercoat..some thing like that.
OR you can make a "fork" for your caulking gun that will fit into the 2 part 3M tube(make it out of wood) and allow the tube to be used with your caulking gun.

Edit: it is called Body panel adhesive.

GrossPolluter

iTrader: (1)

Yah, I think I'm going to try it out. Since I work in the industry, the extra $70 on the tool is not too bad. I have a customer that wants a cf roof on his e46 m3, it'll pay for itself

misterstyx69

iTrader: (142)

take his front sway bar off and send it to me..I need one!

Wohnson89

iTrader: (3)

I had a plan at one point in time on how I was going to do this to my car but I ran out of time. We use 3M 08115 panel Bonding Adhesive where I work to do this sort of thing. I'd also look into these . If you used them to line up an make sure the sunroof is perfectly level you could just leave them in when you glue then cut them off later. They are cheap enough that they are almost a throw away item. If it was me I'd also try to put a stabilizer bracket out of aluminum or something to glue to the bottom to make sure someone doesn't stick their weight on the sunroof and break the joint. (see attachment)

GrossPolluter

iTrader: (1)

You want a e46 front sway bar?

misterstyx69

iTrader: (142)

according to my project info that is what is needed for my 302 swap.

GrossPolluter

iTrader: (1)

I have access to some, but I'm not big on shipping big items. I'm not sure if the shipping costs would even be worth it than to find locally. I have a friend with a stock one he just swapped out. I'll ask him how much he wants for it