The CF Bedford Rebuild Begins

Part 22: The rebuild starts - front spoiler

Originally I was going to use a fibreglass front spoiler but the flares became an issue so am making them from steel.

The way I got this height was to run angle iron down the side skirts and using the front springs as supports am able to keep the same angle.
I don't want it super low, the side skirts are only 40mm lower than original sills and if possible would like to keep the front spoiler 180mm off the ground.

You can see in the picture to the right there is a bit of an insert in the middle of the front spoiler, at the moment the idea is to use this shape but am going to leave it till last when I know the real ride height, if it's to low I will cut it out so can get a trolley jack etc under it.
If I use another grill I'll probably put the indicators in the spoiler, if not then maybe some flutes to the front brakes.

I think my biggest problem is trying to go to radical when I want to keep it simple but not boring or flat looking.
I'll get the supports tack welded in then cover it with paper or thin cardboard to see what it will look like, the grill is going to put me off but things can be changed to suit.

Well I did away with the frame work idea and just cut, bent and welded on some panel steel. I want to do something in the middle of the spoiler, like an air scoop or something but nothing has jumped into my mind yet. I try not to think about it, rather just let it happen otherwise it gets confusing and ends up being hard work.

As you can see I've made a middle bit, tried several things like hinging the center bit but simple ended up being this. These photos don't really do the spoiler justice. Like the rest of the van it's just EA12 (PA10 stuff) over bare metal to stop it rusting.
The Chevy bowtie wont be seen of course as the number plate will cover it.
Still might put spot lights in the spoiler yet, but want to get the van outside and see if it needs them or if they might be to much for the front.

One thing I am not going is super low or even low, two reasons, the first being lowered suspension is really uncomfortable to drive around in and second having the V8 engine mid mounted the sump would be a big target for curbs, drive ways and things. It looks low in the last two photos but it's about 180mm off the ground