Help needed: Panel dimensions to make carbon parts, ...how much variance is there? Options

[tygaboy]

Hi World -
I'm looking into having a set of high quality molds made so we have the option of buying carbon fiber parts that are essentially ready to paint / bolt on. No muss, no fuss.
Specifically, the hood and trunk lids.

My concern is that with the variation we know our cars have, I want to submit the "biggest" panels for use in making the molds so that, if needed, the parts could be trimmed down for that perfect fit! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/aktion035.gif)

In order to do this, I wanted to get a feel for what sort of variance there may be in the panels. Here's where I'd really appreciate your help:

Measure your panels and post the values in this thread.

I'll start!

[Superhawk996]

I'll measure my hood and trunk for you this weekend. Statistically you want the largest sample size you can get since there are so many unknowns here inclusive of the large variable of paint thickness which could be up to 3-4mm itself with high build primer and urethane paint.

Come on guys! help a brother out! Let's get as many measured as possible. You can bet the other supplier went small to ensure that they fit all vehicles. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

FWIW -- in automotive OEM's generally try to own their own tooling. I can tell you at least two distinct horror stories about suppliers that went bankrupt and we were in court getting access to thier shuttered/locked facilities to get our tools back to send to a viable supplier in order to keep production lines running.

You never know when a supplier is about to go out of business and screw you, even when dealing with the big boys. If you don't own the tools (with proof - ideally have you name or brand built into the tool somewhere), you're double screwed because you may not have the time and/or resources to go back and remake the tooling.

I'm not sure of the #'s involved, but, it is always about risk managment.