Quote:
Originally Posted by Daedex
Any advice or help is appreciated.
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The first step that I take is to research and buy quality parts - not source them from eBay; I don't mean to sound discouraging, but there's more than a few reasons for the axiom "you get what you pay for"; there is little to no quality-control for such parts, they are often "one-size-fits-all" (even if labeled as being "model-specific") w/ no warranty, and they're made of cheap(er) materials that can warp/crack easily under forces present while driving, or outlying temperatures (you're probably familiar with this, being in Arizona.)
If you believe that the headache and longer-term issues inherent with cheap/replica parts are really worth the cost-savings, then these are the things that you'll have to be prepared to accept, so - that being said, the next step is to find yourself a legit hardware store with a large selection of/specializing in fasteners (we're not talking Home Depot/Lowe's.)
You're best-bet is to confirm that the size of the bolts/hardware supplied is the correct size and head for the application (flange, hex, etc. - again, most of these "kits" are one-size-fits-all, and often come with downsized bolts/hardware for universal application - or even hardware meant for wood or other non-applicable materials.)
Depending on what hardware was included, and at what points the parts are intended to be affixed to the car - you might need to pick up a few washers, etc.
Things that will help you after that/are often utilized even with quality/OEM parts are things like 3M double-sided automotive tape (I also purchased some 3M adhesive promoter to use in-conjunction, which makes the bond crazy-strong, but can be hard to source locally; here is a link to the exact item I'm referring to -
https://tinyurl.com/3M-Adhesive-Promoter .)
In addition, you could utilize a thread-locker (Loctite, etc.) and/or add a bit of Emblem/Plastic/Trim adhesive that's made by 3M and a number of other brands, and can be purchased at most automotive-based retail stores - just be advised that if you plan on removing the parts at a later time, you'll want the area to be well-heated and to use extreme care, so that the paint underneath doesn't get damaged/peel off.
For the sake of being thorough and which I assume you're aware of, you'll want to ensure the area(s) where the parts are being mounted to are cleaned very, very well and wiped down with rubbing alcohol prior to application (
not an adhesive/tar remover - if you plan on utilizing any sort of tape and/or glue, and ensure that any wax/non-permanent sealant has been stripped/removed from the area prior to starting the installation.)
GL with the project, and hopefully some of this will prove to be helpful to you.