Every enthusiast agrees that any project build must comprise a balance between looks and performance. As such, there is no better aftermarket part than that of a carbon fiber hood – specially, one from TurboKits.com. The switch from an OEM hood found on one’s car to one made from carbon fiber not only adds to the race-inspired look of any vehicle, but also improves performance figures by shedding unnecessary weight above the front wheels.
Below, is a step-by-step explanation on how the KIA Forte Koup went from a clean white sporty car to a menacing one just by switching to a TurboKits.com provided, SEIBON carbon fiber OE-style hood.
Tools:
- 12mm socket
- Ratchet
- 2nd Set of hands / helper
- Drill (If install piece desired)
Preparation:
- Remove packaging (careful not to scratch the new carbon fiber hood gel coat)
- Remove wood blocks on mounting holes
- Save bolts holding wood blocks to the new carbon fiber hood as they will be used during the transfer.
Step 1: Prepare vehicle
- Pop the hood open and clear any debris caught in the vents and loose pieces.
Step 2: Loosen and remove four (4) 12mm bolts holding the hood to the hood brackets (two on either side).
*Note: It is recommended to take fender edge to prevent chipping and scratching of paint.
Step 3: Carefully remove hood with help of a second person
Step 4: Align new carbon fiber hood
- While one person holds the new hood in place, the other person checks for fitment assuring that there is a factory-like gap on either side of the hood where it meets the fender.
- Use the provided hardware (botls) and four (4) washers to secure hood in place.
- Tighten by hand until secure.
Step 5: Adjust hood for fitment
- With the hood in a closed-type position (making sure not to close it complete), check for proper fitment and gaps around fender lines.
Step 6: Switching factory hood prop rod
- Remove factory hood prop rod and accessories (prop rod clip, under hood sound shield, clips, etc) from the factory OEM hood.
Step 7: Transfer factory hood prop rod (and accessories) to new carbon fiber hood
- When installing prop rod clip, drill a 3/8th hole (carefully so as not to break through both sides.
- Insert prop rod clip and twist to secure.
- Test for proper fitment
Step 8: Close new carbon fiber hood completely and perform final checks
- Lower the carbon fiber hood and close until click is heard and locked.
Note: Make sure not to slam the new hood or put too much pressure on the center locking mechanism.
- Pop hood open (from in car as you normally would) and check for any clearance issues in way of marks on the underside.
The KIA Forte Coupe now looks like a true sporty two-door with the addition of the SEIBON OE-style carbon fiber hood. The design lines of the white Forte Coupe pop with the mix of black carbon fiber weave in the hood taking it to the next level of performance while turning heads on the road. A true win-win scenario!
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