Problem installing the front license plate frame

[TheWestMountain]

Hey guys,

My old front license plate was damaged, so I removed it following this post

DIY: Front License Plate Bracket Removal!

If you are like me, you will love this thread. I went out of state to get the exact 2011 Explorer I wanted. Just so happens it has a Front License Plate Bracket on it. These are installed during manufacturing with plastic rivets. Here we go! Tools needed: -Screw Driver -Drill w/...

www.explorerforum.com

Then I was trying to install a new license plate frame. However, I just don’t understand how does the pin work. I was not able to mount the frame using these pins. The mounting holes on the bumper are bigger than the pin diameter.

Can anyone give me some tips?
Thank you!

 

[Michael Blackburn]

It is actually a plastic rivet. You need a special Rivet tool to pull the pin out and squoosh the plastic pin against the back of the bumper.
I would look at alternative fasteners.

Fritz

 

[peterk9]

It is actually a plastic rivet. You need a special Rivet tool to pull the pin out and squoosh the plastic pin against the back of the bumper.
I would look at alternative fasteners.

Fritz

Wouldn't pliers work?

Peter

 

[TheWestMountain]

It is actually a plastic rivet. You need a special Rivet tool to pull the pin out and squoosh the plastic pin against the back of the bumper.
I would look at alternative fasteners.

Fritz

Thanks for the info! That’s very helpful!
After knowing how it works, I was able to install it using two pliers.

 

[TheWestMountain]

Wouldn't pliers work?

Peter

Yes, I was able to install them using two pliers. One plier holding the base pin, the other pulling the center pin out, then cut the excess.

Here is a video showing how to do it.