NSX Carbon Parts: Gauging interest

[Impetus]

I'm located in HK and have access to multiple manufacturing facilities. Have worked with one company in particular making skyline parts which turned out nicely. All parts are FRP composite with a layer of carbon. Parts can be offerered either in dry carbon or wet carbon finish. Here are a few links to door sills in wet, a pair in dry and a GT wing:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/MagnusFung/Parts/DSCF0472.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/MagnusFung/Parts/DSCF0473.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/MagnusFung/Parts/DSCF0475.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/MagnusFung/Parts/sidestepdry.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/MagnusFung/Parts/SardStyleGTwing.jpg

Just got an NSX myself and in the process of researching parts, I've noticed that there are not a lot of suppliers for certain parts, with reasonable prices.

So why not make my own then...

I know the biggest question on your minds after quality, is the price. On issue of quality, (should I go ahead with this project) after the initial mould is finished, I can post pictures of the initial unit in detail. I've given these parts (ex centre console) to the manufacturer already for a quotation and waiting on their reply.

Just an enthusiast myself and not here to make money. Just enough to make it a worthwhile hobby. To break even on initial capital invested, I'll need to sell 10+ items of each. (Started a Poll. See above.) I've identified a few items that may be of interest. If there are others that you think would be well received, please let me know. To give me an idea of demand, please reply if you would have serious intention to buy the following:

Exterior side door pillars - will come with threads as the OEM part. Reuse OEM screws.

Side vents - will come with threads as the OEM part. Reuse OEM screws and screen.

Air inlet behind engine room - I will only make one version of this, which will be slightly modified from the original. Slightly raised. Suggestions on this part are welcome.

Front Bonnet under carriage cover/diffuser plate

Engine room under carriage cover/diffuser plate

Centre Console - Seen a lot of interest on this part. But I would need someone to donate me a centre console for USDM version to be made from.

Possibly a GT wing...

Inputs are welcome...THNX!

 

[Oyagi]

Also, consider making a rear diffuser for the NA1!!

 

[The Kid]

Also, consider making a rear diffuser for the NA1!!

Buy the MODE4 one from Erick, its the sickest thing ever!

I would actually buy a Center armrest and a glove box door in CF 100%:wink:

 

[whatisreal7]

I voted for the center console. Question is if we want double DIN opening, will it be hard to cut the CF weave and make it look OEM? Or will you be offering DDIN cut as an option?

 

[KooLaid]

All 3 visors. I'd even settle for fiberglass finished in black gel coat.

 

[ShiftyBob]

I am VERY interested in the CF Center console (including the TOP PIECE where the Nav Pod would go), as are a dozen others on this site :smile: . I don't understand why nobody is moving on this when there is so much interest in it. In the last year I've seen about a dozen threads of people "gauging interest" on the CF console, and although there are more than a couple dozen people interested, nobody ever follows through :redface: . Ben from DF is supposably working on one (as of 4 mos ago), but he won't answer in any of the threads, or even to PM's. Tomoske has started a thread on the consoles he's getting from Prestige, but we have yet to see detailed pictures. Honestly, I'm not worried about cost. I JUST WANT A GOOD QUALITY CARBON FIBER CENTER CONSOLE. I bought that Dali Piece of shit :redface: , and the only reason I haven't installed it (because there's no other alternatives right now), is because the head unit I want hasn't been released yet.

I'm NOT saying by any means, that I don't think you'll follow through, or that this is a reflection of you or how you do business. If I knew how to make Carbon Fiber parts, I would do so myself, just so I wouldn't have to put up with the constant let down of people offering to do so . I sincerley hope that this works out, because there is definitely a demand for CF parts, so there is some money to be made there. I will probably buy one of Tomoske's CF consoles, and if yours turns out to be better quality, I would have no problem tossing that one out and buying a better one. I'm not looking for a "good deal", I'm looking for a Quality console to put in a Quality car, and if it happens to come at a better price, then that's great... Sorry for the rant :redface:

 

[ShiftyBob]

oh yeah, I am also interested in the door inserts in CF (where the vents are). If/When I ever get a CF console, I will be looking for these. If I am not able to find them, I will just buy the overlays :redface:

 

[Tamoske]

ill post closest cf console photos but i see nobody want??also i wanted to do 15 different parts from cf but i see that no one interested as an example done those tailights but no one want only say nice work and etc very interesting
so why are you saying to this do that if no one interested,i dont want to do some interesting things because i know that when comes time to buy everyone dissapears:biggrin: but no matter because im doing them formyself
Thanks for support TURBO2GO
ALSO ONE MORE THING YOU WANT TO MAKE CHEAP CF CONSOLE DONT THINK ABOUT THAT BECAUSE THIS CONSOLE NEEDS HUGE WORK TO BE DONE FROM CF SO DONT SAY THAT 400$ ITS EXPENSIVE BECAUSE THE REAL PRICE OF THAT REALLY HARD PIECE MUST BE ABOUT 800-1000$ IT MY OPINION THANKS:frown: :frown: :frown:

 

[Impetus]

ill post closest cf console photos but i see nobody want??also i wanted to do 15 different parts from cf but i see that no one interested as an example done those tailights but no one want only say nice work and etc very interesting
so why are you saying to this do that if no one interested,i dont want to do some interesting things because i know that when comes time to buy everyone dissapears:biggrin: but no matter because im doing them formyself
Thanks for support TURBO2GO
ALSO ONE MORE THING YOU WANT TO MAKE CHEAP CF CONSOLE DONT THINK ABOUT THAT BECAUSE THIS CONSOLE NEEDS HUGE WORK TO BE DONE FROM CF SO DONT SAY THAT 400$ ITS EXPENSIVE BECAUSE THE REAL PRICE OF THAT REALLY HARD PIECE MUST BE ABOUT 800-1000$ IT MY OPINION THANKS:frown: :frown: :frown:

Don't worry Tamoske... there's still time for you to show your console to willing buyers here. I'm waiting to see also. If you can do it, I won't bother to do so, so I can concetrate on other bits... :smile:

 

[Impetus]

Also, consider making a rear diffuser for the NA1!!

Is there a difference between NA1 and NA2 diffusers? I just ordered the version 2 from sorcery and wasn't aware there was an issue... this is possible, but this part is large, requires strength and right fixures... thus expensive to make. not writting it off but one step at a time...

just occured to me, you mean something to add onto the original bottom half of the rear bumper...

 

[Tamoske]

let me say GT_NSX that every part from cf we could make with a really good quallity but i could say honestlly that no one wants to do those things because they think nobody will buy at least 10-15 sets because if you want to do cf console in really stunning quallity you must invest in this 1500$

 

[Impetus]

I would actually buy a Center armrest and a glove box door in CF 100%:wink:

will look into possibility of this and add it in the poll. Would you prefer the armrest to retain the factory padded shape? Not sure if the emblem can be retrofitted... or would just a smooth surface do? Note wet carbon would be bad as this part would likely scratch over time...

 

[Impetus]

I voted for the center console. Question is if we want double DIN opening, will it be hard to cut the CF weave and make it look OEM? Or will you be offering DDIN cut as an option?

I think I will only offer one spec if I were to do this part. offered in matt or wet finish... let me know your thoughts.

Retain the A/C control and the ashtray (allowing use of power plug and those that like to put their cell phones in the ashtray like i do). It's functional and nsx is already lacking places to put things.... plus i think it's an anchor point to the dash isnt it?

delete everything in between to flat. Those that want to put gauges can, those that want to put in single or double dins can have an experienced installer cut it or use the stock piece as a template. Head units usually come with the frame... do you guys know if this fits above the console or under? That would make a difference....

Just not possible for me to make too many versions so let you guys battle it out to see which version is most popular.

Just to be fair, I'm not out to fight for business. I am aware that another forum member has offered a console aswell in goodwill. Perhaps he can offer one version and I'll do the other provided there is enough interest. Just a thought.

 

[whatisreal7]

Not all vendors are created equal, and you my friend, through just a few posts, have distinguished yourself as a level-headed, well-spoken, and fair vendor (ie not exploding when your thread is almost hi-jacked :tongue: ). That said, although the idea that one vendor creates one version, and another vendor another version, is conceptually a great idea, but as I stated above, not all vendors are created equal, meaning one may or may not want to buy from another vendor even if he has a different version. That said, I'd like you to make a verson that is the most popular to most =)

I don't think you'll see much resistance w/ the idea of retaining the AC and ashtray openings. Your main points of contention will be 1) single din, 2) double din, or 3) uncut. Your best bet is to start another crisp/concise poll with simple options to narrow this down. Given the amount of interest in this product, I feel confident that a product with good quality and fitment, at the price range of ~$300, you will sell a good 15-20 units easy.

Looking forward to a prototype with close up pictures and maybe even a fitted picture on the NSX.

Best of luck.

 

[whatisreal7]

You can even add a 4th option, asking those who voted for either single din or double din, that if needed, if they had access to a shop who can cut the uncut version to a configuration of their liking. This may also be a viable option that can potentially capture a bigger market. Its all in the math!

 

[Impetus]

I understand your frustration. Though I can only speak for myself, my guess on the lack of follow through goes something like this....

None of the people offering these parts are the manufacturers themselves. A lot depends on quality control, if you can't control that, you can't sell the part, and if you can't sell it, well the investor is the loser in monetary terms. If the manufacturers are located in the states or any developed nations (engine cover from thailand seemed to work out ok), costs are high. If the seller is located in another country, it's hard to control quality. Both of these situations may also lead to the aforementioned scenerio. And none of the people offering dare to ask for deposits... at least not me, I have no credibility. So the answer in short is RISK aversion. But I've done this before with skylines and I'm real close with my suppliers so only piece missing is true demand.

ALso worth noting that SOS stopped making this part and as you say the dali one is no good... which may suggest this part is actually really hard to replicate... I know what you guys want, fit like stock, strong like stock, and apart from shiftybob, :tongue: want it at a "reasonable" cost.

That said, I hope I don't fail those who really want parts. I'm not here to entertain online fantasy.

oh yeah, I am also interested in the door inserts in CF (where the vents are). If/When I ever get a CF console, I will be looking for these. If I am not able to find them, I will just buy the overlays :redface:

The NAV pod.Questions: Only 1 version is offered an its the JDM version as pictured on SOS site which comes with the air vents, correct? this fits ok on the USDM models?

This is the problem. I can make the pod in carbon easy, but the vents are too intricate. I have connections to plastic moulding machinery as well but I think the final cost will be ridiculous. If anyone can find out whether it's possible to buy the vents seperate from the pod, then this would be a possibility.

Same issue with the door panels... I'll look into (haven't pulled mine apart to see yet) it but I suspect the reason other co's have only made the over lay type is because it's too difficult to fit the vents. Though I did see someone post a set somewhere on this forum and it looked like it included the vents. If it's as simple as popping the vents off and into the carbon copy, then it's easy.

The valve that closes off the vents... that mechanism might be connected as one piece to the surface cover, in the least the wheel control that controls that valve is... Remember these parts are FRP composit on the underside, it's not possible to make it as strong as plastic or as intricate...economically.

Are the overlays a sticker or a real thin cover?

Keep the open discussion going... you guys are part of my R&D.

Note that I am driving a NA1 JDM version so any parts that you know are different, need to let me know.

 

[UnhuZ]

Hi,

instead of a layer of CF over FRP, can't you do a 100% CF piece??? (dry or wet)

thanks,
Nuno

 

[Impetus]

I can see you guys REALLY want the console more than any of the other parts... but I need to warn you, this part above all the others will take the most time.
1) It is harder than the others.
2) I don't have a USDM version to work with

I don't have a plan to offer this to local nsx owners because there are probably only a total of 35 in HK and I will never break even. --> So this is just for you LHD owners. That's why I prefer to do the other parts first, unless you guys can help me to help us.

I do know of one LHD car in HK, but I doubt he's going to lend me his part to mould, though he may allow me to fit one in his car to see how it looks... so if this is something you guys can help with... Any discarded center consoles someone can lend me? Doesn't matter if the middles been cut out, as long as all necessary brackets are present and overall structure is intact and in good form.

You can even add a 4th option, asking those who voted for either single din or double din, that if needed, if they had access to a shop who can cut the uncut version to a configuration of their liking. This may also be a viable option that can potentially capture a bigger market. Its all in the math!

You mean ask the pollers that voted for DINs whether it's possible their audio installers could cut this out for them?

I haven't installed a head unit into the NSX, (mine was in glove box) ... but would an aftermarket unit fit into the stock position as does most other japanese cars or is there a inner bracket required? Does it matter if it's installed in the top/bottom din position?

I asked this already in another reply but will ask again here: The frame/bezzle that comes with the head unit. Does this fit ontop of the console or under it? - I think I can amost answer this question myself... I think most headunits vary in depth so ... part of the reason it would be better for the installer to cut the holes and use the bezzle to conceal any open gaps. A decent custom place should be able to do this with confidence.

Same question for the storage DIN's: are there generic units widely available and used?

Just occured to me. I think If I did offer DINs, it would be double. Just because I doubt any of you that would settle for a single wouldnt go for a double and just stuff a storage din there. They make some nice ones with doors that don't look cheap. - but once again, it doesnt solve the dilema of different sized HU's...

Thanks.

 

[Impetus]

Hi,

instead of a layer of CF over FRP, can't you do a 100% CF piece??? (dry or wet)

thanks,
Nuno

Real "100% CF" only comes only in dry... unless a layer of CF sheet and clear coat were added ontop of the (already beautiful)dry carbon... because the composite used in preasurized carbon already matt in color. This would be the technique of how it would be done by my suppliers.

I've never heard of this done though. FIrst off, dry carbon is really expensive, about double because it's a totally different machine and process. The clear coated layer ontop ... just wouldn't make sense because 1)that part doesn't need to be that strong. 2)And adding so many layers would probably make it heavier than the standard plastic piece. Net net it only becomes overpriced...

 

[The Kid]

will look into possibility of this and add it in the poll. Would you prefer the armrest to retain the factory padded shape? Not sure if the emblem can be retrofitted... or would just a smooth surface do? Note wet carbon would be bad as this part would likely scratch over time...

Smooth surface would be fine. So thats armrest, glove box door and a STOCK center console. Same as stock but just CF trim. The parts that goes from the radio, vents, and ashtray. I need the ashtray as I have the boost gauge located in my ashtray.

 

[EK4 hatchback]

Hi Mat,

Actually we have plan to make the B-pillar, side air vent, front under car diffuser but my friend is too busy with his work. We tried an aluminum version of the front under car diffuser and it fits ok so we do plan to make a CF version of it. My friend already made the CF side mirror for RHD NSX and i have a set on my car too. Maybe you can discuss this with my friend instead of making your own.

 

[Impetus]

How much longer should I wait for replys?

Should I assume the way the polls have shaped up that this good for this round?

 

[ShiftyBob]

Looks like the ball is in your court for the CF Center Console...

http://www.nsxprime.com/forums/showthread.php?t=83458&page=4

 

[whatisreal7]

Mag, the poll says ~23 are interested. The previous vendor Prestige in HK sells them on ebay for $275 + shipping, $300 total, so I think that is the expectation on this forum (not to say it can't be adjusted). That said, it'd be great if you can give us an estimate on how much it would cost, and ultimately when it is ready, post some close up pictures, then these things will sell themselves!

Shifty Bob is all over this one, so maybe he can help you source a LHD version for your prototype? =)

 

[nathan]

I am all for a center console cut for a double din while still retaining the factory ashtray assembly.

A lot of us are in desperate need of one, and the other fabricator (Tamoske) is being difficult to work with, and not very trustworthy at the moment.

Lets go!! :biggrin:


Nathan