cpmatthew

So, I hit a curb this morning with my GS and broke the bumper cover where the center J-hook holds the chin spoiler up. I remember seeing in here that someone had used large washers to span the gab and reattach the J-clips. I said to myself, "I can do that," and headed off to the hardware store to get some washers, nuts and bolts. Confident that I could fix the problem, I dove the GS up on some 2x8s and removed the chin spoiler. I started working the washer into position when...oops. I dropped it and it slid into the bumper cover out of my reach.

So, question is, can I get the bumper cover off with minimal tools. I am thinking it may be time for me to cut my losses and take it to the shop.

vig1116

expandable magnet from auto store or HD/lowes, then go fishing for washer

VET4LES

That was my first thought. I have several just for these kind of issues.

ATC399

I thought this was going to be about "hitting a curb"...FWIW I agree with the above post...Go fishing

SilverScorp

Why even do that?!? Drive back to the store and get a handful of washers for $5 and be done with it.

cpmatthew

I have spare washers, I just need to get the washer that I dropped in there, out of there. I have a retractable magnets and some rare earth magnets. I'll give it a try later. I know, silly me.

FlyerVette

Great picture of you CP......lol....

cpmatthew

Actually, he has more hair than I do.

michaelinmech

That's only because there's little to no stress being a Starship Captain

pkmoose

Captain... Captain...

The front end is not too difficult to remove, I would suggest searching for a post on the ZR1 brace install... should reveal how to remove the front facia... best of luck brother

J.J.D.O.

This is was a disappointing post. Was hoping to see some narly pics and a cool "and then I lost it" story.


Anyway, good luck with your problem.

cpmatthew

Sorry to disappoint you. I'll try to wreck more spectacularly next time

Madfence

flexible magnet and bent it so i could make the turn and walla, came right out...

cpmatthew

I found the thread on installing the fascia support. Great write up. I have been thinking of adding a ZR1 or ZRAL style splitter (and curb alert), so I may gather the parts and try to do it all at once.

Does the ZR1 style splitter use any of the existing J-clips?

Wayne O

I think the over-estimating your abilities may have started just before you hit the curb. If you're not sure about doing the repairs yourself take the car to a qualified service shop. Good luck!

bigblock427

cpmatthew

Sound advice, but I fear the shop will want to replace the bumper cover, as that would be the only way to do it "right." I was trying to find a temporary solution. Besides, this how we learn.

iclick

An expandable magnet is a necessity, especially with Murphy lurking about, watching and waiting. Remember that the 5th corollary to Murphy's Law is that bolts, nuts, etc. that fall downward land in the most inaccessible location possible.