65Z01

I've run with no front tag on my '88 for many years but now find the need to install one.

I would like any help/advice on how to remove the "Corvette" rectangle from the front bumper so I can install a license plate into that position.

Cliff Harris

It's held on by 2 Torx screws at the bottom. Look in the gap at the bottom to see them.

65Z01

So if I go under the front end I will find a gap to see and reach those bolts?

I've looked into the FSM and it doesn't address this issue in the Front End pages.

WVZR-1

Yes - if it's been there since new expect the Torx but if not then you could likely expect maybe a Philips cross-head find. You will have no issues!

hcbph

Mine had 2 Phillips screws on the bottom on the bottom of the cover, just use a small screwdriver to reach them. Once out, pull out the bottom of the filler and there are 2 tabs on the top that fit in slots and the whole thing pulls out.
Mine had the 4 license plate holes already in there so it was just a matter of bolting it on.

c4cruiser

You will have to push up the bottom edge of the cover to see the screws. A #2 Phillips screwdriver is all you need to remove the tow screws.

If a front plate has never been mounted, simply center the plate in the opening and use self-tapping screws to create holes. You might want to use stainless steel screws so you won't get any rust. A #10 screw about 3/4" or 1" long will work fine. And most all auto parts stores will have license plate screws in packages.

65Z01

Guys, thanks for all the info...

It's getting warm here so time to get down & dirty and see what's up under there.

65Z01

Though still a bit chilly out there, I did a visual inspection under the front end.
Am I correct in concluding that if I remove the half-dozen screws and drop the black plastic panel under the front bumper that I will gain access to the licence plate holder area bolts??

ToniJ1960

I just used a flashlight to shine into the lower gap of the front plate cover and I could see the two screws at the bottom theyre back in there, theres no need to get under the car or pull anything else off at all.

WVZR-1

You need to remove nothing to remove the Corvette name plate. There should be no bolt holes in the fascia unless at one time it had a front tag. You've no reason to go behind the fascia, there's many ways to mount the tag in the opening. I wouldn't just use screws and insert them, I use nylon stand offs for everything I do and I use a bracket behind the tag also. You should be able to get rather creative. I don't have a front tag so I can't show you.

There may be dimples in the fascia where the tag hardware would normally go once you remove the Corvette plate, it's been a long while since I've had an early bumper apart.

65Z01

OK, I'll take a peak into the thin gap under the plate blank panel; thanks again guys.

peyc2

You on Long Island? I ask as I am as well. I kept the cover on, and bought a bracket that attaches under the front fascia off to the side. Got it. From someone on the forum. It also allows me to slide the plate out with a quick connect so it's only on when SCPD maybe around.

Cliff Harris

I knew mine had Torx screws so the talk of Phillips screws made me go take a picture:



I didn't know my clear coat was peeling in that area... :-(

65Z01

Cliff, thanks for the pic; looks like it should be easy enough to access now.

65Z01

Wow, I can't believe that I never noticed those two torx screws what with polishing the front ends of my Vettes for over 13yrs...

Anyway, I found the two screws AND I have the correct size torx tipped screw driver; looks like a very easy job now...

Many thanks to all for the patience and guidence...

Cliff Harris

My Torx bits aren't long enough to reach. I wanted to give the size but couldn't get them in there. They're 1/4" drive sockets. I also have a "fits everything known to man" bit set that I didn't try.

I took this thing off about 20 years ago. I think I used a hex wrench.

65Z01

I hear that.
I doubt that the Torx bits from my socket set would reach. Fortuantely some years ago I picked up two small Tors "screwdrivers"...for some forgotten project...

Once again proving that "you can never have too many tools"...