Opinions and info on installing aftermarket front spoiler [Archive] - Team Camaro Tech

: Opinions and info on installing aftermarket front spoiler


Domano 68
Apr 30th, 04, 04:46 PM
I am looking to add a front spoiler to my 68. It did not come from the factory this way, so I am wondering if adding would be a concern?

If it is a good idea to proceed, where is a good place to buy? Does it come with an install kit and how difficult is it to install?

I am assuming by adding a spoiler, it would help cool the radiator and engine better.

Thanks for all input!

Vintage 68
Apr 30th, 04, 06:58 PM
The biggest consern is usually the loss of ground clearance at the front - you tend to hit alot of stuff you didn't before.

The site sponsor link to "Ground Up" at the bottom of the page will lead you to one source for these spoilers.

I would not recommend using the "reinforcement" kit available when mounting a new front spoiler on a street driven car - specially if the car is lowered at all in the front. Yhe kit is neat - but things like the Gravel Pan (front Valance) will start getting bent with it. Just let the Spoiler flex a little to absorb the hits.

Hold the spoiler up in place with a couple of clamps while you line up holes and drill as necessary.

The spoiler may help cool - if the air can get through and out faster to...
Adding more air flow up over the front will probably effect the front downforce of the car more than the cooling effects at speed.

Domano 68
May 1st, 04, 03:16 AM
Just what I was looking for. Thank you for your input. graemlins/beers.gif

Geezer
May 1st, 04, 06:08 AM
I put a fiberglass, aftermarket, front spoiler on a Camaro once, then painted the Z stripes continuing them down on the spoiler. I thought it looked great! First time I took the car for a cruise I nailed what must have been a 25-pound coon… by- by spoiler…

383
May 1st, 04, 11:02 AM
I've got a plastic spoiler on my 68. Once I restore this beast I plan on getting a fiberglass one. (doesn't look as cheap). I don't think it does much for downforce unless your running NASCAR speeds. As far as the cooling, I think it might help somewhat but not a huge difference. I do think they look good and enhance the appearance of the car overall. I agree with Vintage in that you should avoid the reinforcement. Let the spoiler flex (or break)instead of the valance.
I have found that you have to be careful when parking up to the curb or park stops.

sneakey pete
May 2nd, 04, 04:51 PM
Mine had a crack in in for the last six years, but stayed pretty much in place. That is until the other night I had it out, I don't remember hitting anything but when I parked Old Cammy only the drivers side was there. What actually happened and where it ended up ?????? I do plan on replacing it soon as I feel they look awsome. I also agree with leaving the reinfocements off. - Barry graemlins/beers.gif

Unreal
May 3rd, 04, 03:13 AM
I have a GM spoiler, and a $25 repop. After all the discussions about breaking spoilers, and bending valence panels, I plan to:
1. leave the braces off
2. use the repop for regular use, and only use the GM one for special events.

Steve W
May 3rd, 04, 07:37 AM
Domano,
I put a repop from Classic on my car. I used the two outer reinforcement bars, but left the middle one off. With the outer bars in place, it helps when just slightly scrapping speed bumps, dips, etc. I believe it strengthens the stucture and will stop it from snapping or cracking or flexing at speed too much, without hurting the rest of the car. ALSO...here's a big tip....when screwing the spoiler to the valance, use slightly over-sized washers. Especially if you're not going to use the reinforcement bars, otherwise, being plastic, the spoiler will flex and enlarge the holes. I'm perfectly happy with my set up. Good luck.
P.S....what are those center caps you have on your rallye wheels? They look really clean...

Domano 68
May 3rd, 04, 10:39 AM
hey Steve,

The wheels are manufactured by Pacer. American Racing offers the exact same wheel with an optional bowtie center cap.

Here is the link to Pacers site. I believe it appears under thier classic line. http://www.pacerwheels.com/stage.asp

These look like a modern day rally wheel without the protruding center cap and beauty ring. Very nice and solid look.

Steve W
May 5th, 04, 05:01 PM
Yes, very solid and still classic looking. I'm not ready to replace my wheels, but if the center caps would fit my existing wheels, that would be cool. Then I could change center caps whenever I felt like it....almost like having 2 sets of wheels!