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How to Install a Spoiler Kit on a Chevy Truck

Contributor
By Ryan Bauer
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)
An example of several methods that can be used to install a spoiler on a Chevy truck
An example of several methods that can be used to install a spoiler on a Chevy truck

Automotive performance parts started out with cars, and there didn't used to be much selection of exterior customization parts for trucks. However, in the past few years, truck modification has become very popular. Now numerous companies produce aftermarket parts, including spoilers, for most common pickups. Chevy trucks, being among the most popular in America, have a wide selection of available options.

A spoiler can be installed on your truck in a matter of minutes, thanks to model-specific kits that make mounting relatively easy for the average person to do.

From Quick Guide: Body Kit Basics
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  1. Step 1

    Purchase your fiberglass, aluminum or plastic spoiler kit from a performance auto parts store, or through one of the various online vendors that carry such parts. Buy a kit specifically made for your model of truck. These kits may come painted or unpainted. Since it is for your specific type of vehicle, some spoilers will come in a variety of pre-painted colors that match the factory color options for the year and model, while others will simply come primed and ready for paint.

  2. Step 2

    Paint the spoiler, if needed. This can be done after mounting, but it is much easier to do when it's not attached to the vehicle. Contact a local body shop to custom match your paint color, or simply purchase spray cans from an Internet vendor for around $25 each. These cans are matched to your factory body color. Paint the spoiler by following the manufacturer's instructions printed on the can itself. If needed, finish the spoiler off with a clear coat to match the factory paint.

  3. Step 3

    Hold the spoiler in place at the intended mounting location to make sure you are satisfied with the placement. Ensure there is adequate space to mount it, so that the spoiler will not interfere with the opening and closing of the tail gate, and that it does not block the rear visibility from the cab. Larger spoilers can tamper with the driver's line of sight.

    When satisfied with the location, measure from the rear and sides of the truck to make certain the spoiler is square, and trace around the base with a dry erase marker. You should be left with an outline of where the spoiler will be installed.

  4. Step 4

    Using masking tape, cover the location on the truck where the holes will be drilled, leaving the dry erase markings intact and visible. Use one to three layers of masking tape. This will provide a protection layer that will prevent the bit from chipping or otherwise damaging the surface of the paint. Double checking your measurements, mark on the masking tape the places where each hole will need to be drilled. Depending on the spoiler, there will usually be four to eight holes required for mounting.

  5. Step 5

    With a powerful electric drill and a new or recently sharpened bit that is appropriate for drilling metal, begin drilling the holes. Before starting, check the measurements one more time. This is the last chance to make adjustments before permanent holes are placed in your truck. Use a slow, steady drilling pattern, ensuring the bit goes in straight and stays on the mark. Once all holes are drilled, remove and discard the masking tape.

  6. Step 6

    Place the spoiler back on the car to make sure the holes line up. Insert each bolt through the truck and into the spoiler. Use a washer between the bolt head and the truck, and if clearances allow, and insert one between the top of the truck and the spoiler. Only tighten each bolt a few turns until they are all inserted, to ensure they all go in smooth and straight. Finally, tighten each bolt all the way. Make sure they are tight enough to secure the spoiler in place during high-speed driving, but not so tight that the paint or the spoiler become damaged from the pressure.

Tips & Warnings
  • If you ever decide to remove the spoiler, insert automotive caps in the holes to fill them. Contact a local paintless dent repair store for a selection of different sizes and colors.
  • Triple check all measurements before drilling. Once the holes are made, they can never be reversed.

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