As I posted yesterday, there's an issue with the 3.2 front "bumper" (plastic skin) and the O.CT FMIC fitting, just as with the Forge FMIC, due to clearance problems, with a deeper "scoop" on the 3.2 bumper. Here's the problem and how to get around it. Not really a huge deal, but if you're afraid to have your plastic bumper cut into, plan to keep your tiny little SMIC's.... : )

This pic shows where the FMIC hits the bumper, on the lateral corners of the FMIC tanks.
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/51913/fmic_vs._3.2_the_problem.jpg">

This is the slot for the mounting bolt underneath the bumper. Has to go back at least another inch, being blocked by the FMIC in front.
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/51913/3.2bumpervsfmic.1.jpg">

Here's a look at the FMIC hitting the 3.2 bumper from the pass. side grill opening. Notice the right of the pic, 1/3 the way up, that's the FMIC hitting the inside of the center lower grill opening/scoop of the bumper.
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/51913/fmic_vs_3.2_the_problem.jpg">

Here's a look at what was done. In order to fit properly, some "trimming" has to be done not only in the lower corners of the lower center grill area, but also behind where the aliens would sit (I've abandoned mine, so don't care).
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/51913/fmic_vs_3.2_drivers_side.jpg">

Another casualty of this whole process has been the tow hook. I know that a others were able to keep theirs, but probably due to my incompetence, the silicone hose coming off the pass. side of the FMIC is in the way. It's not just a matter of moving the hose to screw in the tow hook though, (if that's ever necessary), the metal piping of the FMIC is what's in the way of the tow hook, it's not just the hose. I just can't get stuck, or at least not require a front tow hook. : )
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/51913/fmicvs3.2vstowhook.jpg">

This shows the trimming along the passenger side.
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/51913/fmic_vs_3.2_pass_side.jpg">

Good news is that all the little bits of trimming shouldn't show up, since the stock lower center grill (or my modified version..) still snaps into the tabs without difficulty. You do lose some of the corner slots/tabs on the bumper and the lower center grill, but the middle ones remain, not a big deal. More reports to follow.

Cheers,

Rich

 

lookin hot

 

I probly would have given up on it lol...
"3.2 bumper for sale!!"

 

No "give up", no "try", only "do" ! : )

 

Also, what tools did the installer use to cut the bumper?

Thanks, John

 

When you are finish, are you going to put the bottom bars on?

 

Yeah, working on a modified (what else?) version of the grill. Pics to follow, if it ever gets done : ) This week.

Rich

 

John,

Don't really have many more pics than what I've posted, as it's still in pieces right now, and just being "test fit" at the moment, long enough for me to snap the pics I've taken. It should be more together in the next few days though, with pics to follow of course : )

He didn't use anything fancy to do the trimming...something he called a "nibbler", but just a tool that can make sharp, small bites. I'll try to get a pic of one this week. The trimming isn't that big of a deal remember, since it'll be behind the lower center grill. Even if you used mesh there, I don't think it would be that noticeable to others. I'll keep posting pics as I get them, and you can see what you think.

Cheers,

Rich

 

Your help on this is invaluable - Thx