Drilling Required for Side Skirt Install? How to Prevent Rust on Factory Paint

Side skirts, also known as side sills or sill extensions, are aerodynamic components attached to the sides of a vehicle below the doors. They are designed to improve the vehicle's aerodynamic performance by reducing air turbulence, lowering drag, and increasing downforce. Side skirts are commonly used in wide-body kits and can be made from various materials, including plastic, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and metal.

Side skirts enhance the vehicle's appearance by giving it a more aggressive and sporty look. They also help in distancing the ground from the underbody, offering better handling and stability, particularly during high-speed cornering.

Types of Side Skirts

There are several types of side skirts based on their material and purpose:

Plastic Side Skirts

• Pros: Lightweight, cost-effective, and generally easy to install.
• Cons: Not as durable as other materials and can be prone to scratches and chips.

Fiberglass Side Skirts

• Pros: Durable, customizable, and can be easily repaired.
• Cons: Heavier and more challenging to install than plastic or carbon fiber.

Carbon Fiber Side Skirts

• Pros: Lightweight, strong, durable, and high-end aesthetic.
• Cons: More expensive and may require professional installation.

Metal Side Skirts

• Pros: Durable, solid construction, and can offer a better fit.
• Cons: Heavier and can be more complex to install compared to carbon fiber or plastic.

Installation Process

Installing side skirts can vary in complexity depending on the type of skirt and the vehicle. Here, we will focus on the steps required for a typical installation, with a special emphasis on protecting the factory paint and preventing rust.

Pre-drilling Tips

Marking the Drilling Points

Before drilling, it's essential to determine the best location for the mounting holes. Use a straight edge and a sharpie or tape to mark the spots where the screws will go. Ensure that the marks are aligned with the existing holes or brackets on the vehicle.

Using a Template (If Available)

If your side skirts come with a template, use it to mark the drilling points accurately. This will ensure that all holes are aligned perfectly with the mounting locations, reducing the risk of mistaking the marks.

Protecting the Paint

Apply painter's or masking tape around the marked points to protect the paint. This will prevent any accidental drilling through the factory paint, which can lead to rust.

Using a Clutch to Avoid Over-tightening

Use a clutch bit and a drill that has a torque setting to avoid over-tightening and damaging the surface. A torque bit will help you control the depth of the drilling, ensuring that you do not drill through the paint and into the metal surface.

Drilling Steps

Using the Right Drill Bit and Drill

Use a thin, high-quality drill bit designed for drilling through metal surfaces. A 1/8 inch drill bit is usually sufficient for most side skirts. Ensure that the drill bit is sharp and has the correct diameter for the screws you will be using.

Drilling Depth

Set the drill to a depth control mode to prevent over-drilling. Drill holes just deep enough to accommodate the screws, typically about 1/4 inch deep for most applications.

Clean Up

After drilling, use a wire brush or a fine metal file to clean any burrs or metal shavings from the hole. This will ensure that the screws can be inserted smoothly and securely.

Mounting Tips

Applying Silicone or Adhesive

If applicable, apply a small amount of silicone or adhesive around the holes before mounting the side skirts. This will help in creating a watertight seal and prevent moisture accumulation, which can lead to rust.

Tightening Screws

Tighten the screws in a star pattern, gradually working your way around the skirt. This ensures even distribution of pressure and prevents the side skirt from being over-tightened in one area, which can cause deformation.

Final Inspections

After mounting, inspect the installation for any gaps or imperfections that could be prone to rust. Use a bead of silicone to seal small gaps, as even small openings can allow moisture to enter and cause rust.

Rust Prevention

Protecting Paint During Drilling

1. Marking and Protecting Areas: Before drilling, thoroughly clean the areas where the drilling will take place. Use a clean cloth or compressed air to remove any dust or debris. This will help ensure a clean, smooth surface and prevent rust formation.

2. Using a Drill Cover: Purchase a drill cover or shield that fits your drill bits. Apply this to the top of the drill bit to prevent paint chips from debris falling onto clean areas.

3. Clean After Drilling: After drilling, use a metal brush or a fine-grit sandpaper to remove any burrs or debris around the holes. This will keep the area smooth and prevent rust from forming in sharp edges.

Post-installation Care and Maintenance

1. Seal Holes: Once the screws are in place, apply extra silicone or a rust inhibitor around the screw heads. This will prevent water and debris from seeping into the holes and causing rust.

2. Regular Inspection:

3. Avoid Daily Washing on Drilled Areas: While regular washing is important to maintain the overall cleanliness of your vehicle, avoid washing the areas where you drilled. This reduces the risk of moisture penetrating the paint and causing rust.

   
   

Case Study: Installing Oya Carbon Side Skirts

Let's consider a hypothetical scenario where a customer installs Oya Carbon side skirts on their vehicle. Here's how we can ensure a flawless installation process:

Customer and Vehicle Details

• Vehicle: 2022 Nissan Skyline GTST
• Modification: Oya Carbon Side Skirts
• Installation Method: DIY with professional guidance

Step-by-Step Installation

1. Marking Points:
2. The customer uses a template to mark the drilling points accurately.

3. They apply masking tape around the drill points to protect the paint.

4. Drilling:

5. They use a high-quality drill bit, setting the depth control to 1/4 inch.

6. The customer cleans up the holes using a wire brush to remove any burrs.

7. Mounting:

8. They apply a small amount of silicone around the holes.

9. They install the screws, tightening them in a star pattern to distribute pressure evenly.

10. Sealing:

11. They apply extra silicone around the mounted screws and the edges of the side skirts.

12. Post-Installation Check:

    
    
13. The customer inspects the installation, ensuring no gaps or imperfections are present.

Maintenance Routine

• Regular Inspections: The customer performs routine checks weekly to ensure the mounted side skirts are secure and there is no sign of rust.
• Routine Cleanings: They avoid washing the drilled areas to prevent moisture penetration.

Benefits of Oya Carbon Side Skirts

1. Lightweight and Durable: Oya Carbon side skirts are made from high-quality carbon fiber, which is lightweight yet highly durable. This ensures longevity and performance enhancement without adding unnecessary weight.

2. Customization: Available in various designs and finishes, allowing customization to match the vehicle's aesthetic preferences.

3. Optimized Aerodynamics: Designed to optimize vehicle aerodynamics, improving handling and stability during high-speed cornering.

4. Prevent Rust: Oya Carbon side skirts are treated with rust inhibitors during the manufacturing process, ensuring the installation is free from rust and corrosion risks.

   
   

Conclusion

Best Practices and Advantages of Oya Carbon Parts

Best Practices:

• Protect the Paint: Use masking tape and appropriate drill covers to prevent damage during drilling.
• Clean Drilling Holes: Clean up burrs and debris from the drilling holes to ensure a smooth surface.
• Apply Silicone and Rust Inhibitor: Seal the drilled holes with silicone and rust inhibitor to prevent water and debris from seeping in.

Advantages of Oya Carbon Parts:

• Durability: High-quality materials ensure that the side skirts are long-lasting and resistant to daily wear.
• Lightweight: Oya Carbon products are designed to be lightweight, which contributes to better overall performance.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Oya Carbon side skirts are available in a variety of designs, allowing customization to match your vehicle's style.
• The production process at Oya Carbon includes strict quality control measures, ensuring each part is of the highest standard.