Just installed a new Seibon carbon fibre bonnet on my R53. Install was a bit involved but that was expected. Looks pretty good IMHO



My question is about bonnet latches. I purchased some rubber straps like the ones on the challenge MINIs as pins would suck to install. The carbon hood does latch with the factory latches but I would just like the added security.
Pic of the latch:



Now, I'm thinking of using rivets with large washers on the backside to attach the hardware to the carbon hood. The idea being that stress would transer to the washer rather than the carbon and cracking it. Any thoughts please share

 

I think you're on the right track. I might go one step further, and epoxy the washers to the backside of the hood. How are you mounting it to the bumper?

 

Probably going with rivets or self taping screws directly into the aluminum bumper support.

 

Get these
http://www.aerocatch.com/
Clean safe and they lock

 

And apparently the R56 challenge cars use them. I happened across this trying to find a close up of how the Jeep style ones mount to the bumper:

 

BTW, I forgot to mention that I like your wheels. Rota SA?

 

Thanks, they're the Drag DR-20. I did think about the Aerocatch but the straps were much cheaper. Now I'm wondering if maybe I should just do it right the first time. Just a little weary of cutting the much bigger hole needed for Aerocatch.

 

Do it right the first time. It will look better and the fact that you can lock them is awesome!

 

+1