how to: panel swap on 451

[evoluzione]

i did a search but couldn't find any "how-to" remove & replace the body panels. any one have any info?


regards,

ken

[jwight]

Panel Swaps

Not exactly a how-to but we'll get there in time.

[Fredvon4]

From some of the posts on the Brit sites it is not simple or easy... lots of hidden fasteners you must know about or a ear will get broken off...

I plan to do a series of how to things with my new car...but I do have a real day job** so it is not intended to happen fast** or completly

By completly I mean I probably never will remove every panel just for the sake of removing it... I will have some other reason to get it off

Initially I would not trust newly trained Smart Techs to do this until they experiment/learn on somebody elses car... part of the front panel is hidden behind the mirrors..they must be removed first.. stuff like that..

[Old smart]

This works: http://www.fq101.co.uk/451panels.asp

[Fredvon4]

Thanks fishrdnc... great guide and saves me doing the "how to" one at a time over time...

I keep forgetting to check that site...a few months back they were just getting the 451s ...good to see they are growing their knowledge base

[SmartAzz]

Originally Posted by fishrdnc

This works: http://www.fq101.co.uk/451panels.asp

Great link, thanks

[Fasteddy]

The white taps on the side skirts typically breaks everytime you remove it.

[smartcenterSeattle]

We just got in the first order of replacement panels. They do not come with the fasteners pre assembled as the instructions I found online indicate. This takes install from less than 2 hours as indicated on other threads to more than three. Once we have the first set installed, I will post the removal, pre install, and install times. We have also been told that we will be able to order individual panels on an emergency order basis. We are testing the accuracy of this information. We had a client get rear ended this week and she will need a rear panel.

[lowndex]

Originally Posted by Old smart

This works: FQ101 : Smart Car Modifications

Thank you.

[dellades]

This post has got to be the most informative data I've seen yet. Thanks a bunch!