For those of you that have used 3M tape instead of adhesive to install the scuttles on your F56, did you use 3M Automotive Acrylic Plus Attachment Tape or 3M Super Strength Molding Tape?

Either of these 2 tapes might work just fine, but my impression is that the Automotive Acrylic Plus Attachment Tape might be a bit stickier initially.

Is the tape holding well for you?

 

I used the Scotch 3m Outdoor mounting tape to attach mine about 4-5 months ago. It's been regularly 90-105 degrees here in LA and my car is in the sun quite often. Those guys have not moved even a hair. Super solid and secure. But hopefully more removable than using the glue they suggest.

 

Thank you rmcintos for your reply. I am drowning in 3M tape product options. The outdoor mounting tape is an option that I had not considered at all. I also do not want to use the oem glue. However, picking a 3M tape is proving to be more complicated than I had imagined. Let's see if others will respond...

 

I used the 3M Super Strength Molding Tape. I may have went crazy on it, but it came out nice.

 

Thank you MiniDean for your reply. Your pics are very helpful. The 3M Super Strength Molding Tape is the option that I have been leaning toward over the other 3M tapes. I like the "overboard" approach that you used for the tape pattern. I will do the same.

Would you please be so kind to list step-by-step instructions from start to finish on your installation? I tend to be someone who has to do things 3 times before I get it right. I know I won't have that option with the 3M tape.

 

It's been a little bit since I've done it, but as I recall, when you open the hood you will see a cover over each of the fenders towards the back that are covering the inside of the fender area and the side scuttles underneath. I think there are 3 or 4 retainers that twist off. After you get those off, reach in behind and disconnect the side scuttle electrical connector. On the top of each side scuttle is a clip. Push the clip down and the side scuttle will pop out on the top, then lift the side scuttle up. There is a retaining tab on the bottom of each side scuttle that hold onto the fender. After that, pop out each side scuttle light. You will install those into your new scuttles after you tape the side scuttles in place. I prepared my side scuttles by cleaning the inside surface with alcohol pads. This removes any oil or dirt...3M tape does not stick to dirt. After the alcohol dries, you can cut and shape the tape to fit the inside of the side scuttle. Remove the red liner on the 3M tape on the side that will be adhering to the side scuttle. After that is done, trial fit the side scuttle with tape (but don't take the other side of the liner off yet) to the fender opening to see how it will fit and how it will best fit. The front edge, or leading edge, will need to fit flush into the fender depression, so keep this in mind. Once you find the perfect spot, use masking tape to mark where the side scuttle will fit. This will help you install it. After you apply the masking tape to the fender, remove the remaining tape liners and carefully install the side scuttle with your masking tape marks. Install the front leading edge first into the fender depression and then apply going towards the back of the car. Use a microfiber towel and press down on the side scuttle so that it is fully adhered. Be careful when installing...Once the tape touches the fender, it isn't going to come off easily or at all. After the side scuttle is installed, pull the side scuttle light connector through the hole and plug in your light. Attach the bottom of the light first into the hole opening and then push the light in so it clicks in at the top. The lights do not fit all that well, so just make sure the clip is fully in. The light could be a little loose and I remember working on it for a while to get it to stay just right. let me know if you have any questions and good luck!

 

Does the light release from under the hood?

 

+1 You have to get the right thickness to clear the trim, but not stick out too much. Otherwise MINI uses Betalink.

 

Thank you MiniDean for the very detailed explanation. Your step-by-step is exactly what i was hoping for.

 

This thread is exactly what I was looking for!

For those who used this method with the 3M tape, how long did you wait until driving? I've heard you have to wait almost 6 hours? Hope not but its worth the wait and I can just install later tonight.

 

Has it held up ? Anyone post an update.

 

I waited about 24 hours before I drove my car, but to date, they are well attached. I've tried pulling on them, but they don't budge. 3M tape is used in a lot of factory vehicle applications, and if installed correctly (read on a clean surface), they should hold for a very long time, if not the the life of the vehicle.