I've taken the CF Plunge...

Seanhump · May 15, 2013

Evening all..

Having seen a couple of threads detailing covering the rear C pillars (vs replacing..) I've decided to follow suit...

My pillar covers had one or two small scratches, nothing major, but I know they're there....

So, one roll of fairly high quality CF film later..

Before & after pics now attached

Subtle, but far tidier..

As per other posts, all I did was cut out a larger piece thanthe cover, stick on (working from the centre outwards to remove bubbles) and then trim in situ with a new scapel blade (X Acto for those over t'pond) - simples...

I'll take a look at the front bumper vents (as per the Black Series bumper) too, but not much more... don't want to over do it...

Cheers
Sean

PS – check out http://www.slkworld.com/united-kingdom-region/31725-east-midlands-rabbit-chase.html for info on the possible East Midlands ‘Rabbit Chase”

Mods so far...
Airscarf Retro-fit http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/27470-project-airscarf-starts-here.html
Alpine double-din touchscreen head unit with Bluetooth, Nav, DVD, reverse camera and iPod with a ‘Small’ sub in the boot http://www.slkworld.com/slk-r171-general-discussion/26915-amplifier-location.html
Mercedes Genuine rear Windscreen http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/32951-new-windscreen-one-back.html
Display& steering wheel integration for the head unit.
Digital Climate control panel, Sun sensor and Pollution sensor fully working http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/30240-climatronic-retrofit-digital-climate-control.html
Hat-shelf mounted solar charging panel
Rain Sensor for Auto-wipe retrofit
Various coding changes to the Instrument cluster – see below
AMG Aluminium gear change paddles instead of the buttons http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/31587-amg-aluminuum-gear-change-paddle-retrofit.html
Facelift SLK Antenna http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/32272-facelift-antenna-tick-otherwise-known-two-minute-mod.html
Harman Kardon speaker upgrade – All 11 !! http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/31530-hk-speaker-upgrade.htmlCustom dimming LED DRL’s http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/32992-looking-drls.htmlLED’s… in various places…[x] - Map…[x] – Dome…l [x] – Number plate…[x] –Side…[x] – Puddle http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/33120-leds-were-all.html
Full blown TPMS… http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/33263-tpms-retrofit-its-started.html
Auto Dimming rearview mirror with integrated GPS Speed Camera detector BEHIND the glass…. http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/35096-my-solution-dimming-interior-mirror-look-away-if-you-dont-want-see-things-getting-cut-up.htmlPower Folding mirrors… http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/33942-folding-mirrors-making-start.html
Designo style Alcantara head lining / A Pillars and various other bits….
Johns 3rd brake light gizmo http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/15456-johns-3rd-brake-light-adapter.html

Mods in progress
Parktronic retrofit – nearly all the bits are here….. Just need the main loom now….
…soon this section will be empty …!

Mods on the wish list
Maybe a Smarttop....
Illuminated Sills – I have a cunning plan…

Coding Mods… http://www.slkworld.com/slk-r171-general-discussion/31073-my-adventrures-star-diag.html
[x] - Enable those pesky phone buttons on the steering wheel - FINALLY DONE - WOOHOO
[x] - Enable Auto-wipe – done
[x] - Add temperature display to the lower MFD - done
[x] - Enable tyre pressure Loss Warning - done
[x] - Enabled Folding mirrors – done
[x] - Enable Gallons Remaining in the MFD – done
[x] - Enable Cornering Fogs - done
[x] - Enable both rear fogs - done
[x] - Enable Alarm 'chirping' – done
[x] - Enable TPMS display in the upper MFD – done
[ ] - Enable Highline TPMS – proving tricky!!, but we have some great brains on the case….

jbanks15 · May 15, 2013

Sean, Great job as usual. but what brand cf are you using, (link)?

DIY - Replace rear window trim cover

There has been some discussion about the replacement of the rear window trim covers once they start showing the flaking and delamination problem particularly common in hotter climates. Many folks have recommended leaving this task to the dealer but after getting an estimate of over $350 for the...

www.slkworld.com

Also see: Rear pillar vinyl covering

55_amg_tx · Sep 25, 2020

jbanks15 said:
Sean, Great job as usual. but what brand cf are you using, (link)?

Also see: Rear pillar vinyl covering

Hello is this a true carbon fiber trim or is it like a vinyl wrap cover like the kits they sell in ebay?
If so, can you please let us know where you sourced it? I've been wanting to do this for my slk55.
Thank you!

Seanhump · May 15, 2013

I did some research on some of the films, settled on the embossed one (to remove the potential for bubbles) and ended up with this

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/3D-Carbon...Bubble-Free-0-20mm-/221170313891?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&var=&hash=item337ec72aa3

OK price wise, quick to ship (in a very sturdy tube) - got a couple of metres to play with... (the C pillars don't use much...!)

Cheers
Sean

msjs@blackbear.org.uk · Apr 26, 2016

Seanhump said:
I did some research on some of the films, settled on the embossed one (to remove the potential for bubbles) and ended up with this

3D Catpiano Carbon Fibre Vinyl Sheet Wrap Sticker Film ALL Size, AIR/BUBBLE FREE | eBay

OK price wise, quick to ship (in a very sturdy tube) - got a couple of metres to play with... (the C pillars don't use much...!)

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

With a little time on my hands and a faded parcel shelf I decided to join in with the Carbon Rap. Found a guy in the next village who supplies 3D 152 X 55 for 19€ including postage. When I collected the package from him he gave me 5€ back which he saved on postage - how honest is that!!!

Autocollant Sticker Adhesif Carbone Noir 150 X 50 CM Special Tuning Auto Moto | eBay?

I do intend to get this job done by a pro at some time (and also the sill covers) but I learned a lot from the test.

1) I did it all "freehand", I'm not good with a scalpel but it still looks OK. I think 3M would need a template and a lot more care to avoid wastage.
2) Cheap film needs to be handled carefully to avoid marking the surface but it's fine once it's firmly stuck.
3) It's easy to take off and reposition.
4) The edges will only stick to a flat surface so wrapping the edges wasn't going to work - is 3M better for this?

The matt black looks really good against the matt grey paint.

jbanks15 · May 15, 2013

find me the similar one here please when u get a chance for us stateside people

http://www.tiptopsigns.com/Carbon-Fiber-Sheet-p-1-c-83.html

thanks

LeonardoDaBenz · Nov 30, 2016

jbanks15 said:
find me the similar one here please when u get a chance for us stateside people

Carbon Fiber Sheet

thanks

Something like THIS ?

Seanhump · May 15, 2013

Looks like either CF3D2 or CF3D3 (depending on the size of the weave you want..)

Cheers
Sean

Durkatlon · May 15, 2013

Looks great! :tu:

Mensra · May 16, 2013

From Sean, nothing but the best. MB should bring him onboard as a consultant!

Merc2007 · May 16, 2013

I need to do the same thing as mine have weathered. Now to decide on 3D or 2D.

REB_TN_06 · May 16, 2013

Great work Sean !

Once again SLKWorld members come up with multiple options (I think this is #4 - replace, wax, paint, CF ) for owner's to fix one of the car's substandard components.

If only the seat bottoms were so easily remedied. :biglaugh:

jbanks15 · May 16, 2013

when someone figures out this linear foot stuff, tell me how much to order please!

need at least 20 inches by at least 7 inches x 2

REB_TN_06 · May 16, 2013

Jeff,
If I read it right an order of 1 linear foot for $19.99 will get you a piece 12 inches by 60 inches. Enough for your car and mine too ! Want to go halfsies ?

jbanks15 · May 16, 2013

yes if that is how you figure it! pm me when u can

Merc2007 · May 16, 2013

Jeff the CF3D2 and CF3D3 have an End Use Temp of -4F. That maybe ok if you never leave Florida. It looks like I will have to get the expensive 3M stuff with End Use Temp of -65F

Seanhump · May 17, 2013

Merc2007 said:
Jeff the CF3D2 and CF3D3 have an End Use Temp of -4F. That maybe ok if you never leave Florida. It looks like I will have to get the expensive 3M stuff with End Use Temp of -65F

...This is Jeff we're talking about...-4F ... I think he'd walk instead!!!!:biglaugh:

I don't think Florida gets that cold... (Although it was pretty chilly when I was over there a couple of years ago Jan/Feb 2010 - to watch the last night time shuttle launch, but it was at 4am ish when it lifted .... temperature was fine during the day)

Cheers
Sean

Seanhump · May 17, 2013

More CF...

...So, back onto the original thread topic....

Added a small CF panel to the side grill vent on the front bumper. (both sides!!)..

Not sure if I should do the rear-most one too... may have a go tomorrow and see how it looks... (I'll wrap it round the bumper and into the wheel arch if I do do it...)

Cheers
Sean

PS – check out http://www.slkworld.com/united-kingdom-region/31725-east-midlands-rabbit-chase.html for info on the possible East Midlands ‘Rabbit Chase”

Mods so far...
Airscarf Retro-fit http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/27470-project-airscarf-starts-here.html
Alpine double-din touchscreen head unit with Bluetooth, Nav, DVD, reverse camera and iPod with a ‘Small’ sub in the boot http://www.slkworld.com/slk-r171-general-discussion/26915-amplifier-location.html
Mercedes Genuine rear Windscreen http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/32951-new-windscreen-one-back.html
Display& steering wheel integration for the head unit.
Digital Climate control panel, Sun sensor and Pollution sensor fully working http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/30240-climatronic-retrofit-digital-climate-control.html
Hat-shelf mounted solar charging panel
Rain Sensor for Auto-wipe retrofit
Various coding changes to the Instrument cluster – see below
AMG Aluminium gear change paddles instead of the buttons http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/31587-amg-aluminuum-gear-change-paddle-retrofit.html
Facelift SLK Antenna http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/32272-facelift-antenna-tick-otherwise-known-two-minute-mod.html
Harman Kardon speaker upgrade – All 11 !! http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/31530-hk-speaker-upgrade.htmlCustom dimming LED DRL’s http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/32992-looking-drls.htmlLED’s… in various places…[x] - Map…[x] – Dome…l [x] – Number plate…[x] –Side…[x] – Puddle http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/33120-leds-were-all.html
Full blown TPMS… http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/33263-tpms-retrofit-its-started.html
Auto Dimming rearview mirror with integrated GPS Speed Camera detector BEHIND the glass…. http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/35096-my-solution-dimming-interior-mirror-look-away-if-you-dont-want-see-things-getting-cut-up.htmlPower Folding mirrors… http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/33942-folding-mirrors-making-start.html
Designo style Alcantara head lining / A Pillars and various other bits….
Johns 3rd brake light gizmo http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/15456-johns-3rd-brake-light-adapter.html

Mods in progress
Parktronic retrofit – nearly all the bits are here….. Just need the main loom now….
…soon this section will be empty …!

Mods on the wish list
Maybe a Smarttop....
Illuminated Sills – I have a cunning plan…

Coding Mods… http://www.slkworld.com/slk-r171-general-discussion/31073-my-adventrures-star-diag.html
[x] - Enable those pesky phone buttons on the steering wheel - FINALLY DONE - WOOHOO
[x] - Enable Auto-wipe – done
[x] - Add temperature display to the lower MFD - done
[x] - Enable tyre pressure Loss Warning - done
[x] - Enabled Folding mirrors – done
[x] - Enable Gallons Remaining in the MFD – done
[x] - Enable Cornering Fogs - done
[x] - Enable both rear fogs - done
[x] - Enable Alarm 'chirping' – done
[x] - Enable TPMS display in the upper MFD – done
[ ] - Enable Highline TPMS – proving tricky!!, but we have some great brains on the case….

jameslk55 · May 18, 2013

Seanhump said:
...So, back onto the original thread topic....

Added a small CF panel to the side grill vent on the front bumper. (both sides!!)..

Looks good. I think you should try doing the 2nd vent as well but don't extend it to the edge.

Stinger · May 17, 2013

Sean, good job! As my grandson would say...."Papa, I yike it, I yike it all"!

jbanks15 · May 17, 2013

Ok Sean, I've copycatted you.

My 09 vent looks a little different from yours

Thread here:

http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/419794-carbon-fiber-air-brakes-side-vents.html

Spudmuffin · May 17, 2013

Looks good, subtle, not sure its as worthwhile on a black car but yours does look pretty good jb

jbanks15 · May 17, 2013

ty. that is why i am hesitant for the rear modification. but i just ordered the cf so i will see how that looks.

curro101 · May 18, 2013

Here's another members car in black ( not quite as clean as yours Jeff I'm sure ) to give you an idea !

Waiting for mine to arrive ...

jcw · May 18, 2013

Love it. Thinking of using it to cover my worn centre arm rest in wine red to match the nappa red leather. If that works, I'll do the internal fascia.

Thanks for all the great ideas.

cobra8272 · May 19, 2013

I did mine 'temporary' with 80% dark exterior tint about 7 months ago, still looks fine.

TL_SEA · Jul 13, 2025

That does look good! Would not have thought to use the dark exterior tint. Thanks for the idea.

Seanhump · May 31, 2013

..Afternoon

Thought I'd have a go at covering the silver trim either side of the steering wheel... (under the instrument cluster)

They both pop off, and an off-cut of CF film and a session with the hair dryer later...

Other side is the same - will post 'as installed' pics later

Cheers
Sean

PS – check out http://www.slkworld.com/united-kingdom-region/31725-east-midlands-rabbit-chase.html for info on the possible East Midlands ‘Rabbit Chase”

Mods so far...
Airscarf Retro-fit http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/27470-project-airscarf-starts-here.html
Alpine double-din touchscreen head unit with Bluetooth, Nav, DVD, reverse camera and iPod with a ‘Small’ sub in the boot http://www.slkworld.com/slk-r171-general-discussion/26915-amplifier-location.html
Mercedes Genuine rear Windscreen http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/32951-new-windscreen-one-back.html
Display& steering wheel integration for the head unit.
Digital Climate control panel, Sun sensor and Pollution sensor fully working http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/30240-climatronic-retrofit-digital-climate-control.html
Hat-shelf mounted solar charging panel
Rain Sensor for Auto-wipe retrofit
Various coding changes to the Instrument cluster – see below
AMG Aluminium gear change paddles instead of the buttons http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/31587-amg-aluminuum-gear-change-paddle-retrofit.html
Facelift SLK Antenna http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/32272-facelift-antenna-tick-otherwise-known-two-minute-mod.html
Harman Kardon speaker upgrade – All 11 !! http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/31530-hk-speaker-upgrade.htmlCustom dimming LED DRL’s http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/32992-looking-drls.htmlLED’s… in various places…[x] - Map…[x] – Dome…l [x] – Number plate…[x] –Side…[x] – Puddle http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/33120-leds-were-all.html
Full blown TPMS… http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/33263-tpms-retrofit-its-started.html
Auto Dimming rearview mirror with integrated GPS Speed Camera detector BEHIND the glass…. http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/35096-my-solution-dimming-interior-mirror-look-away-if-you-dont-want-see-things-getting-cut-up.htmlPower Folding mirrors… http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/33942-folding-mirrors-making-start.html
Designo style Alcantara head lining and various other bits….
Johns 3rd brake light gizmo http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171/15456-johns-3rd-brake-light-adapter.html

Mods in progress
Parktronic retrofit – nearly all the bits are here….. Just need the main loom now….
…soon this section will be empty …!

Mods on the wish list
Maybe a Smarttop....
Illuminated Sills – I have a cunning plan…

Coding Mods… http://www.slkworld.com/slk-r171-general-discussion/31073-my-adventrures-star-diag.html
[x] - Enable those pesky phone buttons on the steering wheel - FINALLY DONE - WOOHOO
[x] - Enable Auto-wipe – done
[x] - Add temperature display to the lower MFD - done
[x] - Enable tyre pressure Loss Warning - done
[x] - Enabled Folding mirrors – done
[x] - Enable Gallons Remaining in the MFD – done
[x] - Enable Cornering Fogs - done
[x] - Enable both rear fogs - done
[x] - Enable Alarm 'chirping' – done
[x] - Enable TPMS display in the upper MFD – done
[ ] - Enable Highline TPMS – proving tricky!!, but we have some great brains on the case….

jbanks15 · May 31, 2013

Like this:

Seanhump · May 31, 2013

Yep

just like that...!!

Cheers
Sean

jbanks15 · May 31, 2013

Don't worry Sean, i cheated! you are still the cf obiwan!!!

jbanks15 · May 31, 2013

i got those as extra pieces with my dash kit.

Seanhump · May 31, 2013

I'm just doing the silver trim thats over the glove box (to keep the look right)... might do the steering wheel button surrounds IF I can find / make a suitable pair of templates...

Cheers
Sean

I've taken the CF Plunge...

Attachments

DIY - Replace rear window trim cover

Attachments

Attachments

Attachments

Attachments

Attachments

Attachments

Attachments

Our Vendors

Top Contributors this Month

Recommended Communities