License plate angle

[CAMAROBOY69]

Is there a specific angle the license plate needs to be so it reflects correctly?? Does it need to be 90degress from a level ground or does it really not matter at all?
This license plate is becoming a PITA. :doh:

[Todds69]

You would probably have to contact the Michigan State Police, although I'm sure there is a universal standard.

[Jagarang]

I'm sure that the tail panel is close enough. As long as is legible and not sitting at an extreme angle. I wouldn't worry about it. Half the time they don't even pull people over for having them in the back window, which is very illegal and makes it really hard to read.

[Rick Dorion]

I would mock it up 90* from the horizontal and see how it looks.

[CAMAROBOY69]

Crap thats what I was afraid of. I might have to make some design changes. :pat: Spent about 2 hours trying to figure out what to do with this stupid plate last night. All those bends on the body that I made might have to be cut out so the plate lays flat. :crying: :crying:
I will keep going with what I have and see if I like it. If not then I have to do some more hacking.

[BonzoHansen]

I might assume that if it is plainly legible from the driver’s seat of the car behind you (i.e. police cruiser) you should be good.

[hotroddr]

you might be able to bend your license plate to match whatever curve you might have in the back of the car. I have seen that look good sometimes. Im not sure about the legality but if its in the back and easy to read it shouldnt matter if its curved

[hotroddr]

I just realized which car you had....didnt realize the side by side exhaust thing. I have always wanted to design a license plate mount like a hideaway stereo faceplate. It would only need a slit and when you start the car the license plate would come out flat and then rotate up to be visible. That might not make sense...just look at a hideaway head unit sometime and it will make sense. Then again there are probably some legality issues with having non license plate while parked.
Heres a quick pic to show what I mean. Red rectangle would be slot that plate came out of, yellow is the plate in its drive position.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[Jim Nilsen]

I know it's a bit more work and it isn't what you had in mind but while looking at the last pic I visualized the plate right back where it was originally and the pipes being one on each side of the plate. You wouldn't have to modify your bumper and you would still achieve the pipes in the middle of the car, just not next to each other. I still haven't seen anything like what I am describing and from what I can see it would fit within the sheetmetal you have already replaced.

If it only took you 3 hrs to do the area for the pipes now it should be a breeze compared to the problems you have to solve to complete what you are doing now.

Remember that this is just a thought of what I just saw when looking at the pic. I think it would still look great with a pipe on each side of the plate.


Goodluck and it is looking good so far!
Jim Nilsen

[CAMAROBOY69]

I appreciate your advice Jim but I have wanted to do my exhaust side by side out the back like this for 3 years and I will do it. I am just soo stubborn like that. If I visualize something then I WILL do it one way or another.
Its only metal so I will figure it out. One of my ideas is to sink in that top body line just above the bumper. That line sticks out the most at least 1/2". So if I trimmed that then I would gain a lot. I will try to get a pic posted up in my exhaust thread of what I did last night. If you look at my recent pics again you will see the line I am talking about trimming.
Thanks for the feedback and compliments. :)

[CAMAROBOY69]

I just realized which car you had....didnt realize the side by side exhaust thing. I have always wanted to design a license plate mount like a hideaway stereo faceplate. It would only need a slit and when you start the car the license plate would come out flat and then rotate up to be visible. That might not make sense...just look at a hideaway head unit sometime and it will make sense. Then again there are probably some legality issues with having non license plate while parked.
Heres a quick pic to show what I mean. Red rectangle would be slot that plate came out of, yellow is the plate in its drive position.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
Dennis the plate is too tall to fit in that area. I also thought of that too.

[CAMAROBOY69]

WHoa wait a minute Dennis, I just noticed your pic sais CarDomain.com How did my car pic get on there???
The other idea I have is to make a square the shape of the plate and sink it into the back of the body. Thats my last option but if I dont like this set up then thats next.

[hotroddr]

I uploaded it to my cardomain in order to post it here. Is there a better way to post a pic? I will take it down if you prefer.

[CAMAROBOY69]

http://www.imageshack.us/ is a better place to host.
I would prefer if these mock up pics didnt get around too much. Once I am done then I wont mind but dang these mock up pics are soo ugly. :lol:
I know everyone views the cardomain site.

[hotroddr]

pic taken down...it served its purpose. I hate license plates...there is no way to make them look good unless they are hidden. Of course you could always put it off to one side and make it all angled like mini trucks do:screwy: ...or not!

[Travis B]

pic taken down...it served its purpose. I hate license plates...there is no way to make them look good unless they are hidden. Of course you could always put it off to one side and make it all angled like mini trucks do:screwy: ...or not!


we just don't use them! The trailer has one on it thats all the matters :smoke:

[B Schein]

A friend of mine got one of those rubber dealer things that closes in trunk he forgot about putting a plate on the car until after it had already been painted.

[paul67]

Some street rods have them so they flip down and there are some kits out there ,try street rodder mag.

[nancejd]

Why not make a bracket to hang the plate from the rear bumper?

[Jim Nilsen]

I was thinking that when I look at some plates that have those dealer name trim pieces on the m that not all of the plate is showing anymore. The big question is:how much of the plate is allowed to be covered up/ cut away to still be legal in your state? It would seem to me that if people and dealers can put those trim pieces on and make the plate smaller ,why could you cut the plate down and make a nice stainless trim piece to wrap it in and just fit it in the space by a smidgin?

I also just had the tought as to why you would have to split the bumper ? Why not do like they did on 2nd gens only inverted and just notch it instead of splitting it all the way? It would give you a mounting point and not interfere with any sheet metal and save a lot of work and still keep the bumper looking closer to stock so you don't get questioned for that too?

Just passing out thoughts again, since I understand the I want to do it the way I envisioned it but am having trouble making it all come together problem. Remember I have been working on my car forever because of what you are going thru and being the first and being different is something I understand totaly.

Hope this idea gives you some more thoughts! :twothumbs

Jim Nilsen

[CAMAROBOY69]

I made my final decision yesterday and im sticking with it. I am going to countersink a box into the rear of the car. I guess this is called a "French plate" I knew what I wanted to do just wasnt sure what it was called. It will be very very similar to this pic I did yesterday with post #87 in my exhaust thread.
Thanks again for the feedback. I am very excited to do the French plate idea. I just need to find a place I can buy one or I will just make one myself. Those stupid pegs will be gone.
Deleted old pic

[Jagarang]

I think that is by far the best way to go Adam. It won't look like an afterthought this way. Speaking of legalities, what are you going to do for a light on the plate? I think here in Fla. you have to have the tag lighted at night. That damn light is gonna be much more important than the angle I think.
frenching:
The customizing process of creating smooth curve shaping around the headlights, tail lights, licence plate frames, etc. so that the actual lights, etc. recede a little towards the interior of the panel opening and the chrome bezel or other surround looks as though it is part of the body panel.

[CAMAROBOY69]

Thanks Kevin,
I am sooo excited to do the Frenched Plate idea. I mentioned in my exhaust thread that I will install a LED light into the top of the box. Very very easy to install. I cant wait. Actually I am almost too excited to order a box. I might just make my own tonight. :woot: :woot: :jump:

[Jagarang]

Ahhhh...I thought you'd said in the other post that you were going to install a third brake light....my boo boo...

Take a break from that thing tonight and let me kill you a bit!! :machine:

[CAMAROBOY69]

:lmao: I might be on Halo tonight but im supposed to meet someone in a computer game tonight to kill them instead. Hmm mabey I should take a break tonight and just order a box to install that way I dont have to bend it myself since I dont have a press to bend it properly.

[Jagarang]

I'm calling you out CHICKENBOY69!!!!!

[CAMAROBOY69]

Ut oh I just found out we have a break press at work that I can use!!! I could bend that French Plate myself.
So I might not be on tonight not sure yet.

[Jagarang]

your just looking for excuses you lilly livered yellow back!

[CAMAROBOY69]

If I could find a Frenched Plate already made i would rather go that route. Anyone know where I can pick one up???
Kevin,
You must really be phening for the salty taste of my tea bag in your mouth again. :machine: :lmao:

[Jagarang]

Chickenboy69
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[CAMAROBOY69]

I am searching right now to see if I can find a place to just buy the "Frenched Plate" If I cant find a reliable source then I will have to make my own.

[Jagarang]

KOOL TAG http://www.goodtimeproductions.com/catalog.html
FRENCH LICENSE PLATE KIT

Weld in tag frame made from 18 ga. steel
Close fitting 12 volt tag light
16 ga. electrical wire and bullet terminals
Tag and light mounting hardware
Installation sheet
Dimensions: 13" length x 7 1/4" height x 3" depth

Only $49.83

Also...
http://www.dakotastreetrods.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=2164

http://www.aardvarkcycle.com/builders%20kit.html

Just the box...without a kit

http://www.stylinconcepts.com/parts.aspx/partfamilyid/950/CategoryID/25/SubcategoryID/226

http://store.gaugemagazine.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=2314


http://www.streetbeatcustoms.com/licplatboxst.html


HERE'S A PINK(or YELLOW) neon frame you can put in with it!! :poke: :poke: :poke: http://froogle.google.com/froogle_cluster?q=Pink+Neon+License+plate&pid=4884835772284826234&oid=11726826491800858746&btnG=Search+Froogle&lmode=&addr=&scoring=mrd&hl=en--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[CAMAROBOY69]

WHoa how did I miss this thanks Kevin. I will check them out an make a decision.

[CAMAROBOY69]

I just found this one I like a lot. I can even get the LED light and 3rd brake light. http://www.watsons-streetworks.com/license_plate.html

[Jagarang]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif :twothumbs

How bout a....
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[CAMAROBOY69]

I am going with the kit that I listed in post #34. I am not going to get the 3rd brake light though.
This is whats in the kit.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

The 18 ga. steel box is 12-1/2" wide by 7" high and 3" deep (for standard 12 x 6 plates) and has been clear zinc plated to prevent corrosion before you add paint. PLUS two of our exclusive Bright White LED Illuminators for the plate, predrilled holes position the LED's above the plate. PLUS a 32 LED third brake light that attaches to the top of the box (inside) in a perfect location to be seen from behind. Quality 3M Adhesive provided for mounting. PLUS Stainless Steel License Plate bolts. PLUS rubber grommets to help seal around the bolts and hold the plate away from the paint.
#L54 Everything including LED lights and Brake light $125.00

#L54-X (L54 without the 3rd Brake Light) $95.00

#L54-BOX (Steel box only) $65.00

[CAMAROBOY69]

I just ordered that kit above without the 3rd brake light. :woot:
Looks like I get to kick your butt in Halo 2 tonight Kevin. I will get the tea bag ready for you. :machine:

[Bigblue73]

Try something from street rodders - Paint the plate on your rolled pan. The plate is a number reference only. If the current tag stickers are in place, you have nothing to worry about. This becomes a bummer if you sell the car, however.

The other is the flip down license plate holders. Simple but really effective. Tie it into the ignition switch to actuate and retract when the key is turned off.

I wouldn't mess up the back end of your car. I like the exhaust in the center.

[Jagarang]

Toss some tabassco on there Adam....I like it spicey!

This will be me sanctifingyour passing friend.......
http://www.bungie.net/images/News/TopNewsIcons/TopStorygraphicHumpday4.gif

[CAMAROBOY69]

Toss some tabassco on there Adam....I like it spicey!

This will be me sanctifingyour passing friend.......
http://www.bungie.net/images/News/TopNewsIcons/TopStorygraphicHumpday4.gif
:rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: I love that Halo 2 avatar!!!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[Todds69]

I think you two need help. Everybody knows Splinter Cell rules.

[Ronj]

you 2 need to get a room!! :spank2: :lol: no, really though.........

[dropit69]

adam are you planning on cutting that box down some make it more flush to the back of the car..ive seen them real deep on minitrucks looks wierd deep imo..course its somewhere to set your beer at the shows..lol

[CAMAROBOY69]

adam are you planning on cutting that box down some make it more flush to the back of the car..ive seen them real deep on minitrucks looks wierd deep imo..course its somewhere to set your beer at the shows..lol
Oh yeah it will only be into the car mabe an inch or 2. Hopefully it comes in tomorrow so I can get it done. Im soo excited!

[CAMAROBOY69]

I just received the French box tonight and I am extremely impressed with the quality. I posted pics and info about it in post #106 in this thread https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?t=678

[CAMAROBOY69]

I just used ergonomics last night to figure out my license plate angle.
Using my daily driver as an example of an average height car, I parked it about half way down the driveway. After that I faced the license plate 90 degrees to where the drivers would be. The angle ended up being about 15degrees upward.
You can see the results in post #109 of this thread https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?t=678

[BonzoHansen]

Nice work. That looks just like the box they used on Trucks! a while back (I didn’t read the whole thread to see if that was mentioned). That show does more hot rod stuff then any of the hot rod shows.

[CAMAROBOY69]

Deleted old pics to save space. See post below for update.

[CAMAROBOY69]

I guess I should update this thread again. My latest pics are in post #194 of this thread
https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?t=678&page=10&pp=20
These are the same pics.
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://img87.imageshack.us/my.php?image=67rl.jpg)https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://img135.imageshack.us/my.php?image=76jb.jpg)https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://img135.imageshack.us/my.php?image=81kd1.jpg)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://img135.imageshack.us/my.php?image=94jt.jpg)https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://img87.imageshack.us/my.php?image=106mf.jpg)https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://img135.imageshack.us/my.php?image=117sx.jpg)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://img135.imageshack.us/my.php?image=121fr.jpg)https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://img87.imageshack.us/my.php?image=132oz.jpg)https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://img87.imageshack.us/my.php?image=143os.jpg)
[URL="http://img135.imageshack.us/my.php?image=162zg.jpg"]

[colt zantop]

turned out sweeet! nice work!