Number plate fitting template?

[kevinod]

Hi all,

got a new set of number plates, front one has seen better days. Looking at fitting them, and trying to see the best way of lining them up right. Made a bit of a hash of the back one last time. The new front is the same as the old one so could just place the old one over the new and drill, but the new back is a different shape to the old one. Fits the area better anyway. I'm assuming since a reputable car place has sold them to me they're within acceptable spec size-wise.

Heard something about templates of the area the number plate goes on other cars, has anyone seen anything like that?

I guess I'll try to make one out of cardboard but just wondering if there is a more precise way of doing it.

Kev.

[colm_mcm]

you're talking about using the factory holes then?

We use a ruler for this at work. beware, on the back of the FTO, the number plate is attached to the bumper bracket and not the bumper, so it could be off line.

handiest thing is to use self tappers with cover caps.

and I'd drop the front plate a few inches lower than you have it now if I were you, looks much neater IMO.

[kevinod]

Yup, factory holes. I try not to create any new holes on the car unless I have to (inside or out), that way I can undo things like they never happened.

Interesting you mention lowering the front one a bit, was thinking about that alright, will need to get someone to hold it for me one of these days to decide how far. Actually painted the front plate bracket recently too so instead of black it's now the same colour as the bumper, kinda 'hides' it a bit. Looks a lot better than before when it was black and starting to rust anyway!

[Bernard]

My rear plate took ages to get right, (a bit OCD) but the front one was a doddle. I used velcro.
No problems yet.

[CJ]

I used velcro.
No problems yet.

Have used velcro in the past with good success, can I also recommend double sided sticky foam as supplied with numberplates.ie plates. (More OCD - I don't like to see screw heads on plates so try to use adhesive stuff where possible).

If you're goin down the screw route, a ruler. a pencil and a good eye is all you need. If you've 2 bad eyes, get a spirit level.

CJ

[colm_mcm]

I can see why it would be used in Japan but the front bracket is unnecessary and akward looking when you have a long plate.

[kevinod]

I've heard about you guys and your velcro fetishes...





I'm inclined to bolt/screw it in, or I'd be constantly checking to see if the plates are still there just out of paranoia (or is it more OCD? ). Time to get out a ruler I guess!

[Dragonheart]

What the hell is 'OCD'??

[TopCat]

Obsessive-compulsive disorder, Obsessive-compulsive disorder, Obsessive-compulsive disorder