Vettesic

I discovered there is a bolt on the outer right rear bumper. It secures nothing due to the fact that the body hole is bigger than the bolt. On the left side there is no bolt. I find that the usual vette supply books sell brackets. Do they bolt to the outside of the car? Haven't got to the aim yet. My question is does a 71 even have a bracket? I can't see bolting metal to glass without a support bracket. I've read some prior post showing different set ups for different years. Not sure why all bumpers not secured the in the same manner. Thanks

Alan 71

Hi vc,
There was no bracket for that bumper bolt.
It just snugged up against the fiberglass.
The bracket was there in 73 (thanks Jimmie), and maybe part/all of 72?
Regards,
Alan

There was just a bit of a discussion about this bolt in Priya's rear bumper thread.

Vettesic

Alan. Was wondering if I a bracket could be applied there. Just for bracing purposes.

Alan 71

Hi Vc,
I'd think the bracket would bolt right up.
Really can't think of a reason it wouldn't.
Regards,
Alan

Vettesic

I've deceived to just leave the side bolts out. Bumper is solid enough without them. I think it's just too risky to snug up a bolt to fiberglass. Even with a gromet. I've read that the 73 model has an added support rod that also was used to service older chrome bumpers. But even with the brace, it still is being bolted against the side quarter. My 2 cents.
For the sake of this post as informational here is a file photo or the supports. Be well.

Alan 71

Hi VC,
Some folks find it helpful to use that bumper bolt through the quarter panel to help control the 'level' of the bumper when viewed from the car's side.
If the correct size washers are used there's no more chance of fiberglass damage there than at the other through fiberglass bolts.
I sort of think that's why it was there in the first place?!?
I don't over tighten any of the bumper bolts. I just tighten until the lock washer begins to be 'set'.
Regards,
Alan

Vettesic

Thanks Alan

DUB

I have a way to fix this problem in this area...but for the purists....it will not work. If a person does not care about having their car be put under a microscope...then what I do will work..as it has worked for countless Corvettes that have this bolt area severely damaged.

DUB

Vettesic

I'm listening....

DUB

PM me....I will get you my shop phone number and you can call me on the phone and I will tell you all about it if you want to know.

And before you do so...understand that you will have to buy some stuff to do it...so...it will cost you some money right off the bat due to I seriously doubt you have what you need right now. And obviously...I am NOT charging you any money to tell you what you need to do to fix this....its free.....other than the phone call you make to me.

DUB