Belly Pan Installation: Cost And Process

The cost of installing a belly pan varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the complexity of the installation process. For example, the cost of replacing a belly pan on a BMW M5 is estimated to be around $180-200, while labour costs for a similar procedure on an Audi A4 are expected to be minimal, as the task can be completed in under 30 minutes.

In terms of the installation process, it is generally a straightforward task that can be completed by following a set of standard steps. This includes securing brackets, installing rubber spacers, fixing the relevant parts of the belly pan, and tightening screws. However, it is important to note that specific instructions may vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Additionally, there are different types of belly pans available, such as the all-aluminium Panzer Plate belly pan, which offers enhanced protection for low-hanging engine parts and is suitable for winter driving conditions.

Belly pan installation kits are available online

If you're looking to install a belly pan on your motorcycle, you can follow these steps:

• Loosely secure brackets
• Install rubber spacers
• Secure the right part of the belly pan
• Fix the brackets
• Insert crosspiece
• Tighten all screws

Before you start, make sure to jack up the motorbike and secure it to prevent it from toppling over. It is also recommended to lay out a wool blanket or workshop work mat to prevent any scratches on the painted belly pan parts.

Additionally, if your belly pan is not painted the colour of your bike, it is advisable to trial fit it first before taking it to a paint shop for your desired finish.

Installation is a quick and easy job

Installing a belly pan on your motorcycle is a quick and easy job. It is a popular way to customise your machine and give it an ultra-cool look. It is also a simple process that does not require any special tools. You can install a belly pan in the comfort of your own garage.

Before you start, jack up the motorbike and secure it to prevent it from toppling over. It is also recommended to lay out a wool blanket or workshop workmat to prevent any scratches to the painted belly pan parts. If your belly pan is not painted the colour of your bike, you should trial fit it first and take it to a paint shop for your chosen finish. The original colour code for your bike can often be found under the seat, on a metal plate attached to the frame, or in your bike manual.

Now, let's get started with the installation:

Step 1: Loosely secure brackets

Start by attaching the supplied brackets to the original mounts on the engine block. Only secure them loosely so that they can be adjusted later when aligning the belly pan. Specific instructions on securing points are provided for each motorcycle model.

Step 2: Install rubber spacers

Insert the rubber spacers between the brackets and the belly pan. These spacers are crucial for dampening vibrations and extending the life of your belly pan.

Step 3: Secure the right part of the belly pan

Using the supplied hexagon socket head screws, attach the right side of the belly pan (viewed in the direction of travel) to the brackets. Only hand-tighten the screws at this stage.

Step 4: Fix the brackets

Repeat Step 1 for the left side of the belly pan.

Step 5: Insert crosspiece

Fit the crosspiece between the two belly pan halves, either on the outside or inside of the pan, depending on your preference.

Step 6: Tighten all screws

Finally, align the belly pan halves to ensure symmetry and that no part of the pan touches the manifold or moving parts. Make sure the installation is tension-free. If necessary, bend a mounting lug or use a spacer instead of overtightening the screws, as this may cause damage. Once everything fits snugly, give all the screws a final few turns to fully tighten them.

It can be done at home without special tools

Installing a belly pan on your motorcycle can be done at home without the need for special tools. It is a fairly simple process that can be done in the comfort of your own garage while listening to your favourite music.

Before you begin, it is important to jack up the motorbike and secure it to prevent it from toppling over. Additionally, lay out a wool blanket or workshop workmat to protect the painted belly pan parts from scratches. If your belly pan is not yet painted, it is recommended to trial fit it before taking it to a paint shop to match your bike's colour. You can usually find the original colour code for your bike under the seat, on a metal plate attached to the frame, or in your bike manual.

Now, let's get started with the installation process:

Step 1: Loosely Secure Brackets

Attach the supplied brackets to the original mounts on the engine block, on the right side as viewed in the direction of travel. Secure them loosely so that they can be adjusted later when aligning the belly pan. Refer to the specific instructions for your motorcycle model.

Step 2: Install Rubber Spacers

Insert rubber spacers between the brackets and the belly pan. These spacers are crucial for dampening vibrations and extending the life of your belly pan.

Step 3: Secure the Right Part of the Belly Pan

Using the supplied hexagon socket head screws, attach the right side of the belly pan (viewed in the direction of travel) to the brackets. Only hand-tighten the screws at this stage.

Step 4: Fix the Brackets

Repeat Step 1 for the left side of the belly pan.

Step 5: Insert Crosspiece

Fit the crosspiece between the two halves of the belly pan. You can choose to install the crosspiece on the outside or inside of the belly pan, depending on your preference.

Step 6: Tighten All Screws

Align the belly pan halves to ensure symmetry, and make sure no part of the pan is touching the manifold or any moving parts. Check that the installation is tension-free. If necessary, adjust the mounting lugs or use spacers instead of tightening the screws until the plastic parts press against the securing points under tension. Once you're happy with the fit, give all the screws a final few turns to fully tighten them. Be careful not to overtighten, as this may cause damage.

Additionally, ensure that oil pressure relief and fuel drain hoses do not hang into the belly pan. Any dripping oil or fuel can damage the plastic, causing it to become porous and brittle.

Belly pan replacement costs vary

In some cases, the belly pan may be an optional accessory, and the decision to install one may depend on factors such as the desired level of protection for the vehicle's underbody and the potential impact on fuel efficiency. For instance, the addition of a belly pan on an Audi A4 is claimed to improve fuel efficiency by 2-3 mpg at highway speeds, but the choice of material and the vulnerability of the pan to damage from road debris and snow/ice should be considered.

The process of installing a belly pan typically involves securing brackets and rubber spacers to the vehicle's engine block, followed by attaching the belly pan using screws. This can usually be done using basic tools such as screwdrivers and hex keys, and it is important to ensure that the pan is securely fitted without any tension that could damage the plastic parts.

Overall, the cost of replacing a belly pan can range from a few dozen to a few hundred dollars, depending on the vehicle and the type of belly pan chosen. The labour involved is generally minimal, and with the right tools and instructions, it can even be done as a DIY project.

Aluminium belly pans are more durable

Aluminium is a strong and lightweight material, making it an ideal choice for belly pans. It can withstand the vibrations and rigours of the road, extending the life of the pan. This is especially important for motorcycles, which are susceptible to damage from road debris and gravel.

The process of installing an aluminium belly pan is similar to that of a plastic one. It involves securing brackets, installing spacers, and fixing the pan to the brackets with screws. However, it is important to note that aluminium pans may require additional tools such as a rivet gun for installation.

One of the key benefits of aluminium belly pans is their durability. Aluminium is a robust material that can withstand impacts and abrasions. It is also resistant to corrosion and rust, which can be a common issue with other metals. This makes aluminium belly pans a long-lasting solution for protecting the underside of your vehicle.

In addition to their durability, aluminium belly pans can also enhance the appearance of your vehicle. They come in a variety of styles and designs, allowing you to customise your bike to your personal taste. Some aluminium belly pans are even available in colours that match the original motorbike colours, creating a seamless and stylish look.

Overall, aluminium belly pans offer a durable, stylish, and practical solution for those looking to customise their motorcycle or street bike. With their sturdy construction and corrosion-resistant properties, aluminium belly pans are a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to enhance the look and protection of their vehicle.

Frequently asked questions