Front Grill replacement F40...pics

Had some spare time this weekend ...decided to replace the front lower grill on the F40. Its easily damaged by rocks etc...OCD types like a nice straight grill

US F40's have the lower grill held in place by 6 rivets...black rivets to be exact (they are on their way from Ferrari). I drilled out the old rivets, disconnected the horns from each side, and removed the right side air deflector (by drilling a rivet out)...the grill then has enough clearance to come out. I'm also replacing the radiator foam...its just lying on the radiator and is going to be positioned.

Here are some pics I took...I will post the final update when the new grill is placed.
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I am assuming that the "old" rivets cannot be re-used?

Interesting that the designers didn't just use re-usable bolts to bolt that grill in. Oh well.

 

I love your garage!

 

the old ones are 'drilled out' -ie drilled out to the diamater of the hole in the bodywork so they just crumble out

 

Funny thing is, when you look at the parts manual for the grill, it shows that the euro versions are screwed in ! For some reason US cars are riveted. Maybe some of the euro car owners could confirm if indeed the grill is screwed in place.

 

Thanks Ryan, my wife calls it the "cave"...

 

correcto !

 

Jas,

I am in the process of changing my grills out now......Did you locate factory rivets, or go with the black-faced automtive rivets?
Would love to know the correct size before I drill mine. Also, where did get the replacement radiator seal? Ricambi told me they were no longer available from Ferrari. I use adhesive backed PVC foam...but had to use two rows since I could not find anything wider than 1.5".

I posted about it last week..But it was overshadowed by pictures and the odd bantor from our pal in Queenland. ;P

Joe

 

Joe,

Speak to David at Ricambi, extension 105, he is getting me the rivets. Also, I got a NOS foam radiator seal...but it had deteriorated over time sitting on a shelf...again, I got a replacement one from Rutlands and it was fine. I used a 5/32 drill bit on the rivets, this pops off the head, and then you can rotate the drill slightly in the rivet hole to clean it out without enlarging it too much. You may want to pop one of the rivets on the right air deflector to rotate it out of the way....this allows the old grill to clear without any bending/stresses. I would recommend masking of the paint area in the front scoop so that the new grill insertion doesn't slip and scratch.

Thats about it !

 

Can I come over sometime?

 

Its a bit of a drive for you...but sure ! anytime !

 

Sorry Jas but i cant read if you post pics of your garage..too hard to stop looking at the cars.

 

RufMD - I take it that your floor is painted industrial epoxy? If so - how has it worn over time? It looks great (From the limited view in these photos).
Thanks.
Kevin

 

Kevin, I have chosen a different surface for the next garage being planned. The epoxy has lifted in a few areas that are under contact with warm tires. The floor was acid prepped/washed and double coated with epoxy, but still lifted in some spots. Also, when wet, this surface is treacherous to walk on. With a little one, and another on the way, it becomes a safety issue....a little bit of snow on the shoes and its skating time !

 

Is that one of the reason's she is now an 'ex?'

 

Did you check out his 'daily ride' in the lower left hand corner? All he needs is a 110v spot each way on the commute.

 

Thanks - I was wondering about that. What will your next garage floor surface be?
Thanks.
Kevin S.
Orchard Park, NY

 

?

happily married and never divorced my friend....

 

Kevin, the next surface is going to be slate/stone, that has been sealed. There is an outside chance that I may do polished concrete with some colouration added, but as of now it looks like grey slate.

 

I will be back in Dallas around May, maybe I should visit Kentucky as well

 

Sure ! Catch the Derby, and experience some other "horses" at the same time !

 

I KNOW you have a lot of personal experience looking at a garage full of sweet cars...post some of your shots my friend !

 

Great thread. My grill is in rather good shape but I shall remember these details

 

My grill is also perfect in spite of all that "spirited" driving...

Joe
www.joesackey.com

 

This damage happened in just 24 hours of spirited driving. It's good to tend to it before corrosion sets in.

Great Garage!
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