A small problem developes

[Peter]

As some may be aware i'm planing or had planned to replace my rear light clusters.

http://www.lotusexcel.net/phpbb/viewtop ... =14&t=6125

I've got my new rear light clusters, i dont have rivets in my rear bumper as ther breather hose has been replaced prevously by the looks of things, so it's screws all round, and i bought a nice shiny new set to replace the tired looking ones in there now, the breather hose is fairly flexible so done probably a few years ago

I drilled the new holes in the clusters, time to whip off thw bumper except....

The two main bolts just under the boot light housing dont want to come out

Now being someone who's never done a job on the car before, this stopped me dead in my tracks, what do i need to do?, will all the bolts and there housing need replacement aswell, and how do i get them out in the first place?

[AndyC]

In what way wil the bolts not come out?

Rusted solid? Drill the head of the bolt using a series of increasing sized Cobalt or titanium drills.
Rotating freely? Have you got the number plate off as they are bolts and nut not bolts and captive nuts?

[Peter]

There rotating freely.

Erm sorry if this sounds the stupidist question, but how do i get the numberplate off, i did not see any screws for it, either inside or outside the boot

[AndyC]

It varies but if there are no screws on yours then it's held by either sticky pads or a surround.

[Peter]

Ok i'l have to have a poke around when i got some free time and see if i cant get it off, without breaking anything!, Thanks

[amarshall]

Ok i'l have to have a poke around when i got some free time and see if i cant get it off, without breaking anything!, Thanks

If it's held on with sticky pads and you're worried about breaking it - a bit of nylon fishing line (held at both ends) can be used to "saw" through the pads. Just start at one side of the plate and work your way across.

Number plates are, on the whole, pretty robust though and can stand up to being prised off the sticky pads quite well.