License plate mounting

[333Matt]

Hi all, proud newish graphite 2014 FRS owner here.

One of those things I really wish I didn't have to worry about but is starting to use up too many brain cycles, license plate mounting. Forgive my lack of technical terminology and general not so handiness.

On the front (required front plates in Ohio), there's a plastic mount attached to the car that has two receivers for what I'll liken to machine screws. I'd really rather have four, but I guess I can live with that.

On the back, there are two holes directly into the body with what I would liken to wood screws, perhaps better termed self-tapping bolts. So these bolts are biting into the metal of my trunk? This seems disgusting - even leaving aside the fact that they're copper-colored - am I wrong?

For the carbon fiber plate frames I want to install, I really want 4 at least in the back. Is this direct into the trunk crap "ok"? If so, how should I go about putting in the extra 2 holes? Otherwise, what should I do?

Also, the plate is already marring up the paint around its' edges... I think I can come up with something for that based on what I've googled, but any suggestions on the best way to handle my situation would be awesome, thanks.

[nextcar]

Originally Posted by 333Matt

On the back, there are two holes directly into the body with what I would liken to wood screws, perhaps better termed self-tapping bolts. So these bolts are biting into the metal of my trunk? This seems disgusting - even leaving aside the fact that they're copper-colored - am I wrong?

For the carbon fiber plate frames I want to install, I really want 4 at least in the back. Is this direct into the trunk crap "ok"? If so, how should I go about putting in the extra 2 holes? Otherwise, what should I do?

Also, the plate is already marring up the paint around its' edges... I think I can come up with something for that based on what I've googled, but any suggestions on the best way to handle my situation would be awesome, thanks.

You are wrong. The two sheet metal screws go into plastic inserts.

Also there are two strips of rubber under the rear plate to reduce rattles and protect the paint

[humfrz]

Originally Posted by 333Matt

Hi all, proud newish graphite 2014 FRS owner here.

Hi ya 333Matt , welcome to FRS ownership and to ye ol forum......

Ya know, it only takes 2 screws/bolts to hold the plate on ........ heck, it ain't going nowhere......

I've only used two screws/bolts per plate on vehicles for the past 60 years and never had a plate fall off.

I suggest you just enjoy driving your new machine and fuss less about the small things.... your machine will last just as long and YOU will last longer .....


humfrz

[Tcoat]

Originally Posted by 333Matt

On the back, there are two holes directly into the body with what I would liken to wood screws, perhaps better termed self-tapping bolts. So these bolts are biting into the metal of my trunk? This seems disgusting - even leaving aside the fact that they're copper-colored - am I wrong?

.

Get rid of those copper coloured ones they will rust. You don't need to drill more holes just get some bolts to bolt the bottom of the frame to the plate. I used some nylon bolts for the bottom (front and back) and jut bolted the whole works together. The top will hold fine.

[333Matt]

Originally Posted by humfrz

I suggest you just enjoy driving your new machine and fuss less about the small things.... your machine will last just as long and YOU will last longer .....


humfrz

Originally Posted by Tcoat

Get rid of those copper coloured ones they will rust. You don't need to drill more holes just get some bolts to bolt the bottom of the frame to the plate. I used some nylon bolts for the bottom (front and back) and jut bolted the whole works together. The top will hold fine.

Yes to all of this! The frames I want that will work for OH sticker placement only come in 4 hole versions, and I do not want empty bottom holes. @Tcoat or anyone can you link me to an example what you're talking about as far as nylon bolts for the bottom to hold the frame to the plate? I will be a happy camper...

[Sosa]

Originally Posted by 333Matt

I do not want empty bottom holes.

My solution to unwanted holes:

Cut down some bolts and fastened them with e-clips. Used some rubber caps to protect my paint. Dug up some old pics:

[Tcoat]

Originally Posted by 333Matt

Yes to all of this! The frames I want that will work for OH sticker placement only come in 4 hole versions, and I do not want empty bottom holes. @Tcoat or anyone can you link me to an example what you're talking about as far as nylon bolts for the bottom to hold the frame to the plate? I will be a happy camper...

Actually any auto parts store in the license plate section (I may have even bought mine at Walmart if I recall) will have them. You can get black or chromed ones. I like them because instead of just filling the hole they secure the plate to the frame and stop it from flapping around.