How to Prep Your C8 Z06 or E-Ray for a Front Splitter Installation

How To Remove The Lower Trim Panel To Install A Front Splitter On Your C8 Z06 Or E-Ray Corvette

At ACS Composite, we know that installing a high-quality front splitter is one of the best ways to enhance both the style and performance of your C8 Z06 or E-Ray Corvette. However, before you can install that perfect splitter, you need to remove the lower trim panel on your front bumper. This guide will walk you through that process step-by-step, so you can get your car ready for its awesome new upgrade.

Many Corvette owners don't realize that the bottom of the front bumper has a separate removable lip. Taking off this lower trim panel is essential for proper splitter installation, as it allows the splitter to reuse the factory mounting points for an exact fit. Whether you've chosen one of our C8 Z06/E-Ray front splitters or another brand, this guide will ensure you're prepared.

Tools and Hardware Required

Before you dive into removing the lower trim panel on your C8 Z06 or E-Ray, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• T15 Torx screwdriver
• 7mm socket wrench
• Small flashlight
• Trim removal tool or clip remover
• Shop towels or cleaning wipes

Having the right tools will make the process much smoother and help prevent any accidental damage to your Corvette's stunning finish. We recommend using a plastic trim removal tool to avoid scuffs or scratches when prying out the retaining clips.

Step-by-Step Splitter Removal Process

Step 1: Remove the Lateral Under Tray Panels

To start removing the lateral under tray panels on the Corvette Z06 or E-Ray, first gather your T15 Torx screwdriver. Begin with the panel on one side of the splitter, where you’ll find five T15 screws securing it. Carefully unscrew each one and set them aside in a safe spot for later use.

Next, move to the rear edge of the panel, where seven additional T15 screws are distributed along the perimeter. These screws help stabilize the panel and are exposed to road debris, so be cautious during removal, especially with the last screw. To avoid dirt falling directly onto you, lean the panel outward when loosening this last screw.

Repeat this entire process on the opposite side to complete the lateral under-tray panel removal. This thorough approach ensures all bolts and connections are carefully managed, helping to protect your vehicle from potential scratches or debris exposure during the disassembly process.

Once both panels are removed, you’ll have access to other fasteners for the splitter. This step prepares the area for safe removal and prevents potential interference from road dust or grime that typically collects in these underbody regions.

Step 2: Remove the Rear Center Pan

To remove the rear center pan on the 2024 Corvette Z06 or E-Ray, start with a T15 Torx screwdriver and a 7mm socket wrench. First, locate the T15 screws at the front of the rear center pan. Unscrew these carefully to loosen the panel, making sure any accumulated dirt can fall towards the rear to avoid having debris drop directly onto you.

Next, use the 7mm socket wrench to remove the four recessed 7mm screws positioned further along the pan. These are tucked slightly under the panel, so a wrench with a comfortable grip can make reaching them easier.

Once these are out, move on to the final T15 screw at the rear. After removing this last fastener, the center pan should be fully detached, allowing you access to the components underneath.

This step-by-step ensures each screw is safely removed and helps maintain access to the splitter’s main fasteners, making the overall removal process smoother and more straightforward.

Taking a moment to wipe any dirt from exposed areas can also be helpful, especially before reinstalling parts. This preparation and attention to small details make for a cleaner and more efficient removal.

Step 3: Remove the Front Center Under Pan

To remove the front center under pan on a 2024 Corvette Z06 or E-Ray, start by gathering a T15 Torx screwdriver, a 7mm socket wrench, and a small flashlight to help you see the recessed screws more clearly.

Begin by locating the T15 screws along the front edge of the pan and remove each one carefully. These screws are positioned to secure the under pan firmly, so keeping them organized will be helpful when reinstalling.

Next, switch to the 7mm socket wrench to handle the recessed screws located further back on the pan. These 7mm screws are tucked into tighter spaces, making the flashlight handy for locating and unscrewing them.

Once the front and recessed screws are removed, check to see if any remaining T15 screws are holding the pan. Loosen any remaining fasteners to fully release the under pan, allowing you to access other components beneath the front of your Corvette.

With this step-by-step approach, you’ll have a smooth removal and a clear view of all mounting points for future modifications or maintenance.

Step 4: Access the Lower Trim Panel Fasteners

Accessing the fasteners for the splitter on your Corvette Z06 or E-Ray involves removing 18 screws and 6 clips. Along the splitter’s flange, you’ll find 18 7mm screws that need a socket wrench to unscrew. These screws keep the splitter tightly secured to the front bumper and may require some patience as you work along the entire flange.

Additionally, there are 6 plastic clips positioned strategically to further stabilize the splitter. Using a trim tool or clip remover will help prevent damage as you carefully pry each clip out. Once these screws and clips are fully removed, the splitter will be ready for easy detachment, preparing you for replacement or upgrades.

Step 5: Remove the 7mm Flange Screws

To remove the 18 7mm screws along the splitter flange on your Corvette Z06 or E-Ray, grab a 7mm ratcheting wrench from the kit. This wrench is ideal for reaching the angled screws along the flange, which might be difficult to access with a regular tool.

Begin on one side, working from the outer edge toward the center, carefully unscrewing each bolt. Use steady, controlled turns to avoid stripping the screws, especially since these small 7mm fasteners are essential for reinstallation.

The ratcheting wrench in the kit is designed to make the process faster and minimize hand fatigue, so take advantage of it as you work your way down the line. Complete one side before moving to the other for an organized, smooth removal process.

Step 6: Remove the Plastic Retaining Clips

To remove the 6 plastic clips securing the front splitter on your Corvette Z06 or E-Ray, use a trim removal tool designed for these kinds of fasteners. Start by positioning the tool under each clip, ensuring it is centered to avoid slipping.

Gently apply upward pressure to pop the clip out of its slot. These clips are snug and can sometimes be tricky to remove without scratching the surrounding area, so a plastic or non-marring trim tool is ideal for minimizing potential scuffs or damage to the finish.

Some clips may need additional leverage. If they seem stuck, try repositioning the tool to get better access to the clip’s base. This technique helps ease the clip out evenly without stressing the surrounding plastic or metal.

Once all six clips are removed, the splitter is free to detach, making it ready for replacement or inspection. Using the proper tool not only protects the vehicle's finish but also makes the removal faster and safer.

Step 7: Detach the Lower Trim Panel

After all fasteners and clipsare removed, try lifting and pulling the splitter forward to slide it out smoothly. For extra control, especially if it’s a single-piece aftermarket splitter, support the splitter evenly as you pull to avoid any flexing.

The factory trim is actually a three-part component assembled as a single unit. You can see this by the split lines. Just be mindful of that when you are pulling it off not to bend it.

Get Ready to Install Your New C8 Z06/E-Ray Front Splitter

With the lower trim panel removed, your C8 Z06 or E-Ray Corvette is now ready for that beautiful new front splitter. If you haven't chosen a splitter yet, check out our single piece Carbon Flash Black Z06 & E-Ray Front Splitter.

C8 Corvette Z06 & E-Ray Lower Trim Removal [Video]

You can watch our video showing these steps in practice. Be sure to give it a look!

Remember, proper installation is key to getting the most out of your new splitter. If you have any questions during the process, our team at ACS Composite is always here to help. We want to make sure your Corvette looks and performs its best with our premium upgrades.

Now that you've got the skills to remove that lower trim panel, you're one step closer to unleashing your Corvette's full potential. Get ready to turn heads at the track and on the street with a front splitter that's perfectly matched to your Z06 or E-Ray. Happy modding!