I haven't finished this yet and there are a lot of items to work out regarding mounting and fitment, but this is something that I've been meaning to do for a while and finally found an afternoon to try it.

Using black plastic mesh (what seems similar to customautomesh.com's) I was able to fabricate this insert. I always wanted a black mesh look and something that would go great with the UTR or similar grill.




I'm not sure when I'll get around to finishing this but hopefully soon. The areas that I'm still working on...

- shape still needs fine tuning as it doesn't sit flush yet
- need some type of edging (rubber trim perhaps? soft metal?)
- determine best way to mount it (possibly using stock splitter mounts) as this prototype is currently held crudely with nylon straps just for fitment testing.

Also, as the mesh is really flexible (kind of tough, but definitely has elastic properties), the stock splitter helps support it. Ideally, I can get a surround that is strong enough that will allow me to remove the splitter if it will improve the look...not sure yet.

The best parts...the material is super cheap (I mean dirt cheap and I don't know how some charge $40 for this set up) and it's super easy to work with. Once I finalize the shape and mounting materials, it should be easy to duplicate as I'll have the template.

Also, I've been looking at the Coupe fog light mods...and this would be one way of making a clean looking (OEM type) fog light addition. Just need to cut out a hole and flush mount the housing.


What do you guys think? Tell me if I'm smoking crack or drinking too much of my own bath water....let me know if you think this looks good or is just plain ugly.

 

I think it looks like a good start!

I am going to do almost the same thing now that I installed my UTR grille. I am thinking about trying to put the mesh behind center inserts. It is all in my head and I have not even started trying to see if it will work yet.

Where did you get the mesh?

 

I think on yours you may be able to get some of that flexible small black tubing (~1/8"-1/4") and cut it in half to make a nice border. It would fit on the mesh and provide a good friction surface that you could even glue or double-stick tape on from the back side. They may even make something like that which is already cut.

 

i think it sounds like a great idea and i'd defnitely be interested in seeing a finished product and possibly purchasing one. The curren "grill" or "fin" we have on the nismo kit right now is okay but I was already thinking about adding a chrome trim to the fin or doing something different. Also the hole just seems really big and I wouldnt want a big *** rock to fly in there and damage anything and have been looking at an option. I though about the black plastic mesh similar to the coupe and 05+ sedans have on their lower grill insert, I think it will look great! If you don't mind me asking, where did you purchase this plastic mesh from? I might be starting this project soon and we can comare notes/experiences.

 

I got the mesh from www.mcmaster.com. Do a search for "Polyethylene Plast ci mesh" and you'll find it. I got the .52" opening size. They sell it 48" wide sheets...and you buy it by the foot. I got a 24" x 48" roll for only $9 shipped ($3.60 for the plastic + $5 for Overnight shipping!). I wanted a thicker mesh to make it stronger, but they don't make it any thicker for the opening size.

It really is amazing how cheap it is...I should've bought more because of the shipping costs...but I didn't know it until after I completed the order. I do have to warn you that when I first got it, I was disappointed at the flimsy feel and look of it (kinda looks like wire fencing, but plastic). But after I cut it out and placed it there, I was like wow...looks great (comparing it to the close up photos on the www.customautomesh.com site, I believe it is the same).

I thought about using rubber tubing as well, but haven't gone to the hardware store to source it. I'll let you know as soon as I can get there.

If you're not in a rush, I can always email a paper template of the pattern to you once I finalize it.

 

Of course I meant "Polyethylene PLASTIC mesh" for the search.

 

Also forgot to say to "thanks" for the positive comments so far...I hope I can finish it soon.

 

that actually wont look bad at all~

 

Go for it and take pictures from a distance one thing I like about the 05 with aero lip is the mesh.

 

hey bro if you can email me the template that will be great! I am also thinking about doing something to the face duct fin. Find my thread here https://g35driver.com/forums/g35-sedan-v35-2003-06/108874-attention-all-font-aero-nismo-bumper-owners.html, i'll post picture when im done to show you how it turned out.

 

BTW are you keeping the current nismo face duct (black plastic) there and putting mesh behind it or getting rid of the nismo face duct completely?!

*EDIT* nevermind i saw the above image.

 

+1. The '05 is nice and clean but I've been thinking about replacing the mesh with something else.

 

Excellent start.

 

When I finish it (not sure when), I'll be glad to send it to you.

And good luck on your DIY!

 

The first search term you gave "Polyethylene Plast ci mesh" works perfect. It takes you right to the stuff.

Thanks!