Equipment needed for this installation:
- 3/8-inch drive ratchet or electric driver
- 3/8-inch drive extension
- 3/8-inch dr. wobble extension (optional)
- T30 Torx 3/8-inch drive bit socket
- T35 Torx 3/8-inch drive bit socket
- T40 Torx 3/8-inch drive bit socket
- Torque wrench
- WD-40 or equivalent lubricant (if needed)
- Small flat screwdriver or flathead trim tool
- Magnetic tool tray or flat surface to store bolts
Installation steps and guidelines:
1. Loosen the radiator bolts in the following order (recommended):
- 4 x T40 bolts located at the top extremities (2 on each side)
- 4 x T30 bolts securing the black headlight clips (2 on each plastic black clip holder on each side)
- 4 x T30 bolts at the front of the tie bar
- 2 x T45 center bolts (using a wobble head may make removing these bolts easier, though it's not mandatory)
- 8 x T30 bolts (4 on each side) holding the hood latches
2. Remove the plastic buckles:
- Unclip the top layer by using a small screwdriver on the side inserts
- Insert a flathead screwdriver under the next plastic roundel and pinch the center clips to remove the buckle
- Twist off the remaining plastic head (like a key-lock mechanism) and install them in reverse order on your new radiator brace
3. Detangle metal hood latches
- Slide the two metal hood latches (one on each side) from underneath the brace/tie bar by slightly angling them
- Once the latches are under the brace, remove the brace carefully from your engine bay compartment
4. For F8X models:
- Remove the weather strip along the hood opening (optional)
- Transfer the rubber portion of the airbox centering pin to the new brace
5. Align the new radiator brace in place
6. Place corner hood latches so that they rest on top of the brace
7. Install bolts loosely in the reverse order of removal
8. Close the hood to verify proper latching and release
9. Open the hood to torque down the bolts
10. Reinstall the weather strip if previously removed
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