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How Does a Body Kit Affect Car Performance?

Contributor
By Claudette Pendleton
eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)
From Quick Guide: Body Kit Basics

    Understanding the Body Kit

  1. wide-body aero body kit
     
    wide-body aero body kit
    A body kit is a special set of car parts generally used to modify the exterior of cars. Most body kits include side skirts, front and rear bumpers (fenders), spoilers, and occasionally front and rear side guards. However, there are also automotive body kits that are referred to as performance body kits to enhance the performance of a car. Some body kits are purchased for the purpose of enhancing both exterior appearance as well as performance.
  2. Impact on Car Performance

  3. Spoiler from a body kit
     
    Spoiler from a body kit
    A body kit can affect a car's performance in various ways. For example, a ground skirt kit is capable of improving aerodynamics to a car, as well as reduce the lift under the car which helps to lessen the chance of losing control of the car when driving at higher speed limits. As early as the early 60s, race car designers, inventors and mechanics conducted various tests and experiments with the automobile's design, shape and closeness to the ground through the use of such products like body kits. The purpose of these experimentations and car modifications was to improve the car's performance by means of ground effects as well as other aerodynamic possibilities. Today, there are a wide variety of body kit products that are on the market to greatly enhance a car's performance. Adding a spoiler to a car, for instance, lessens wind resistance and takes off a few tenths of a second from sprint times. Adding performance body parts like intakes, cold air intakes, headers, turbo charger kits, cam gears and engine management can add greater horsepower performance to a car. When choosing a performance body kit, it may be a good idea to consult with the manufacturer of your car. Choosing a manufacturer-approved body kit may lessen the chances of voiding your car's warranty. A manufacturer-approved body kit may, also, be the best fit for your car to enhance superior performance.
  4. Body Kit Components

  5. Luxury performance body kit
     
    Luxury performance body kit
    Body kits are generally made of polyurethane, fiberglass or carbon fiber. Carbon fiber is a lightweight material and is a popular choice with car enthusiast, however, not as popular as polyurethane. Polyurethane body kits is a popular choice with car owners due to its resistance ability to damage and, also, because it will not crack in cold weather. Polyurethane is very durable and the parts last longer. When installing the parts of a body kit, it is important to make sure that the installer is a skilled and knowledgeable technician.
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eHow Article: How Does a Body Kit Affect Car Performance?

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