f430

Was at the local F dealership last pm for the intro of the 599. Asked the GM his thoughts on me purchasing a cgt. His response was great car, but if driven frequently the $18,000 undertray would have to be replaced because the ground clearence is low. Whats everybodys experience?
Thanks in advance for your replies

W8MM

Your dealer must be referring to the most forward of the three. I was quoted circa $44,000 for all three CF under-panels.

I had the misfortune to run over a piece of mechanical road-kill that I think had previously been a universal joint from a large truck. Because of traffic conditions, I couldn't divert around it and decided to try to center it up as I passed over it at about 25 mph. There was a huge "bang" as it rolled under the car and briefly tumbled into a position which was an interference fit between the forward under-tray and the road surface.

It punched a small hole in the forward CF under-tray and put some light gouges in the aft other two CF panels. The damage was fixed to my satisfaction with some epoxy which was recommended in a consultation with PCNA. The hole was filled/sealed and the scratches/gouges were filled mainly to keep the free, damaged fiber ends from ravelling any further. The fix turned out really well, though the repaired areas are clearly visible.

If one plans on driving the car, it's theoretically possible that something like my incident could happen to anyone. However, that is the one and only time I have had any under-body issues.

The front spoiler rub strip takes much more contact in day-to-day driving. It seems pretty robust and still looks pretty good after dozens of minor scrapes. I consider it a wear part and nothing to worry about.

Here's a look at my debris-caused hole before it was repaired with epoxy:

f430

Thanks for the reply. I would have thought the dealer was trying to talk me out of a cgt and into a 599, but he wouldnt sell me one. So cgt here I come.

autosea

I have been involved in the building of racing sailboats for the last 20 years and I have in stock a square weave carbon 4oz. cloth that is slightly bigger but blends well. I am not afraid of any composite repair on that car.

autosea

a few more challenges

autosea

a few more

autosea

a few more pics

autosea

OK,1 more

autosea

finished ready for paint

autosea

I dont have any pics of the undertray . I fixed it as well. I fabricate and I will be availible to repair damaged trays (small sales pitch. Hey ,I put in the time)

hockeydude

maybe a little OT, but what nautical company were you associated with autosea?


And i did i mention WOW! nice work (thus my inquiry)

autosea

Owners rep building boats in New Zealand with Cookson,Martin,and Franklin.These companies are the world's leading builders of composite racing yachts.