In this chapter of the StealthBuilt Audi A6 Widebody Build, Sam Kimmel returns to the rear of the car to refine the bumper, test diffuser layouts, and lock in the final design for the rear end and fender flare transitions. What makes this stage unique is how much input came from the online community, with TikTok and Instagram followers voting on key visual decisions.
This episode is all about iteration, inspiration, and crowd-collaborated creativity.
Setting a Fixed Reference Point: The Top Board Template
Sam starts by trimming a top-mounted particle board to serve as a fixed structure for the bumper. This reference board:
- Helps align diffuser elements and side pieces
- Is temporary, used only for mocking up fitment
- Ensures a consistent contour and lip shape during fabrication
With the air saw and flap wheel grinder in hand, Sam trims everything down for a flush, sculpted base to begin diffuser mock-up work.
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Designing Around the Tailpipes
The first cardboard templates are built to create a subtle inset area around the tailpipes. These shapes act as both:
- A visual anchor for the exhaust exit
- A foundation for further design options like air deflectors and vents
Originally, the sides were left open to showcase tire clearance and make room for standalone deflectors. But as Sam and the community reflected on the look, it was clear the design needed refinement.
The Power of Prototyping (and Feedback Loops)
Sam builds three different diffuser designs using:
- Cardboard templates
- Blue painter’s tape for shaping and visualization
- Feedback loops from TikTok and Instagram
“Sometimes what looks good in your head doesn’t translate well in real life. That’s why I prototype everything.”
He even tapes the pieces to match color and posts side-by-side shots online for followers to vote. The result? Design C wins and becomes the official direction for the rear of the build.
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Final Fender Flare Integration and Dowel Skeletons
With the rear bumper diffuser finalized, Sam shifts his attention back to blending the fender flares into the bumper edge.
Using:
- Hot glue
- Wooden dowel rods
- Cardboard edges
He builds out a flare skeleton that will later be fiberglassed. The visual is described as:
“It always reminds me of a dinosaur skeleton — all sticks and glue — but it forms the perfect mold base.”
This version becomes the final, most aggressive and popular design, complete with vent details, smoother bumper flow, and better alignment with the front end.
Community-Driven Creativity: Why It Works
Throughout the video, Sam emphasizes how much fun it’s been allowing followers to vote on design choices, give feedback in real time, and influence the final form of the build. It’s a rare window into interactive automotive content creation, where the builder and audience shape the outcome together.
He finalizes the passenger side first (Design C), then returns to the driver’s side to match everything post-vote.
Key Takeaways from This Build Stage
Always prototype in cardboard – it’s cheap, fast, and highly flexible
Social media is a powerful design tool – live feedback = better decisions
Use dowel rods for 3D shape layout – it’s like sketching in space
Tape mock-ups give you true shape clarity before fiberglass work begins
Watch the Process & Be Part of the Build
📺 Watch the full video here
📸 Follow along on Instagram and TikTok: @stealthbuilt
💬 Leave your thoughts, vote on designs, and shape the future of this build!
