Customizing Club Car Precedent Body Trim

Introduction

The Club Car Precedent is a popular golf cart known for its versatility and customization options. One popular way to personalize your Precedent is by replacing or modifying the body trim. This guide will walk you through the process of customizing your Precedent’s body trim, from removing the existing trim to installing new components.

Types of Body Trim

The Club Car Precedent offers a wide array of body trim options to suit your style and preferences. Understanding these options is crucial for making informed decisions about your customization project. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of body trim found on Precedents⁚

• Side Steps⁚ These are the platforms that run along the sides of the cart, providing a secure step for entering and exiting. They come in various materials, including aluminum, steel, and plastic, with different finishes and designs to match your aesthetic.
• Front Bumper⁚ The front bumper protects the front of the cart from minor impacts. You can find bumpers in various styles, from simple and functional to elaborate and decorative. Some bumpers are even equipped with integrated LED lights for added visibility.
• Rear Bumper⁚ Similar to the front bumper, the rear bumper safeguards the back of the cart. Some rear bumpers include features like license plate holders, tow hitches, or storage compartments.
• Roof⁚ Precedents often come with a standard roof, but you can upgrade to a custom roof with features like lighting, storage compartments, or even a sunroof. Consider your needs and preferences when selecting a roof.
• Windshield⁚ The windshield protects occupants from wind, debris, and the elements. You can choose from different styles, including clear, tinted, or even curved windshields. Some windshields even come with wipers for added functionality.
• Mirror Set⁚ Mirrors are crucial for safe operation, and you can find various options to suit your needs. Consider standard mirrors, wide-angle mirrors, or even folding mirrors for easy storage.
• Wheel Covers⁚ Enhance the visual appeal of your cart with custom wheel covers. Choose from different materials, colors, and designs to match your style.
• Grilles⁚ The grille is the decorative element on the front of the cart. You can find grilles in various designs and materials, allowing you to personalize the front of your Precedent.
• Lighting⁚ Beyond standard headlights and taillights, you can add custom lighting to your Precedent. Consider LED light bars, underglow lighting, or even accent lighting for a unique touch.

It’s important to note that not all trim components are interchangeable between different Precedent models. Consult the manufacturer’s specifications or a reputable dealer to ensure compatibility before making any purchases.

Removing Existing Trim

Before installing new body trim, you’ll need to remove the existing components. This process typically involves a combination of fasteners and clips, and it’s important to be careful to avoid damaging the cart’s body or the trim pieces themselves. Here’s a general guide for removing common body trim elements⁚

• Side Steps⁚ Most side steps are secured with bolts or screws. Locate these fasteners, often found underneath the step or along its edges. Carefully remove the fasteners, and the step should detach. Some side steps may also have clips securing them to the cart’s frame; gently pry them loose with a plastic trim tool or a flathead screwdriver.
• Bumpers⁚ Front and rear bumpers typically use a combination of bolts and clips. Identify the fasteners, often located underneath the bumper or at the edges. Remove the fasteners, and the bumper should detach. Be cautious when removing clips, as they can easily break if not handled carefully.
• Roof⁚ The roof is usually secured with bolts or nuts, often found on the underside of the roof or at the corners. Remove the fasteners, and the roof should detach. Some roofs may have additional support brackets or clips that need to be removed as well.
• Windshield⁚ Windshields are generally held in place by clamps or brackets. Identify these fasteners, often located at the top and bottom of the windshield. Carefully remove the fasteners, and the windshield should detach. If the windshield has rubber seals, use a trim tool or a flathead screwdriver to carefully release them from the frame.
• Mirror Set⁚ Mirrors are often attached with bolts or nuts located behind the mirror housing. Remove the fasteners, and the mirrors should detach. If the mirrors are secured with clips, gently pry them loose with a trim tool or a flathead screwdriver.
• Wheel Covers⁚ Wheel covers are usually secured with clips or snaps located around the perimeter of the cover. Gently pry them loose with a trim tool or a flathead screwdriver, working your way around the cover.
• Grilles⁚ Grilles are typically held in place with clips or screws. Locate the fasteners, often found around the perimeter of the grille. Remove the fasteners, and the grille should detach. Be cautious when removing clips, as they can easily break if not handled carefully.
• Lighting⁚ Lighting components like headlights, taillights, and LED light bars are often secured with bolts or nuts. Identify the fasteners and carefully remove them. Be sure to disconnect the wiring harness for each lighting component before removing it completely.

Remember to document the removal process, noting the location and type of fasteners used. This will help you reinstall the new trim components correctly. Always wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection, when working on your cart.

Installing New Trim

With the existing trim removed, you’re ready to install your new components. This process often mirrors the removal procedure, but with a few key differences. Here’s a general guide for installing common body trim elements⁚

• Side Steps⁚ Align the new side steps with their mounting points on the cart’s frame. Ensure they are level and flush with the body. Reinstall the bolts or screws you removed earlier, tightening them securely. If the side steps have clips, carefully align them with the corresponding slots on the frame and gently push them into place.
• Bumpers⁚ Align the new bumpers with their mounting points on the cart’s frame. Ensure they are level and flush with the body. Reinstall the bolts or screws you removed earlier, tightening them securely. If the bumpers have clips, carefully align them with the corresponding slots on the frame and gently push them into place. Ensure all clips are securely engaged.
• Roof⁚ Align the new roof with its mounting points on the cart’s frame. Ensure it is level and flush with the body. Reinstall the bolts or nuts you removed earlier, tightening them securely. If the roof has additional support brackets or clips, reattach them as well.
• Windshield⁚ Align the new windshield with its mounting points on the cart’s frame. Ensure it is level and flush with the body. Reinstall the clamps or brackets you removed earlier, tightening them securely. If the windshield has rubber seals, carefully slide them into place around the frame, ensuring they are properly seated.
• Mirror Set⁚ Align the new mirrors with their mounting points on the cart’s frame. Ensure they are level and flush with the body. Reinstall the bolts or nuts you removed earlier, tightening them securely. If the mirrors are secured with clips, carefully align them with the corresponding slots on the frame and gently push them into place.
• Wheel Covers⁚ Align the new wheel covers with the wheels, ensuring they are properly centered. Gently push the clips or snaps into place around the perimeter of the cover, ensuring they are securely engaged.
• Grilles⁚ Align the new grilles with their mounting points on the cart’s frame. Ensure they are level and flush with the body. Reinstall the clips or screws you removed earlier, tightening them securely. Ensure all clips are securely engaged.
• Lighting⁚ Align the new lighting components with their mounting points on the cart’s frame. Ensure they are properly positioned and level. Reconnect the wiring harness for each lighting component, ensuring all connections are secure. Reinstall the bolts or nuts you removed earlier, tightening them securely.

Once all new trim components are installed, double-check that they are securely fastened and that there are no gaps or misalignments. Take a final look to ensure all components are level and flush with the cart’s body. If you’re unsure about any installation steps, consult your owner’s manual or seek guidance from a qualified mechanic.

Finishing Touches

With the new trim installed, your Club Car Precedent is looking fresh. But there are a few final touches that can elevate your customization project. These details can make a big difference in the overall appearance and functionality of your cart.

• Clean and Polish⁚ After installation, give your cart a thorough cleaning. This will remove any dust, dirt, or fingerprints that accumulated during the process. Use a mild soap and water solution to clean the entire body, including the new trim. After drying, apply a polish to the trim to enhance its shine and protect it from the elements.
• Detailing⁚ For a truly polished look, consider adding some detailing touches. This could include installing custom decals, adding chrome accents, or even painting certain trim components to match your cart’s overall theme. There are many options for detailing, so explore different possibilities to find the perfect look for your Precedent.
• Functional Enhancements⁚ Don’t just focus on aesthetics. Think about adding functional enhancements that improve your cart’s usability. This could include installing cup holders, storage compartments, or a rearview mirror. These additions make your cart more practical and enjoyable to use.
• Safety Check⁚ Once everything is installed and detailed, take a final safety check. Ensure all lights are working properly, the windshield is securely fastened, and all mirrors are adjusted correctly. This final step ensures that your cart is safe and ready for use.

By taking the time to add these finishing touches, you can transform your Club Car Precedent into a truly customized ride that reflects your style and meets your needs. Enjoy your new custom cart!