Haze

Hey There -

When I posted this years ago I was certain that you could get the plastic blocks at Pepboys, but now I don't know. You might want to get them before you start.

Drilling out is pretty basic. You want to start with a pretty small drill bit (like 3/32) and make a hole as close to the center of the bolt that you want to take out. Then use successively larger drill bits to make the hole larger. Normally, you are trying to make a hole large enough to fit your easy out remover into then you would spin the broken section out, but I would not try that here. Because the white plastic blocks are removable and disposable. I drilled out all of the bolt except the threads then just took a pair of pliers and pulled the plastic block out of the bumper cover. The plastic block is only secured by the pressure of the bolt being screwed into it. No bolt, and it pops out very easily.

Anyway, start with a small hole. You do this because it is easier to drill a small hole taking less force making it easier to stay close to center. Then when you go bigger use drill bits that the flat part of the bit in the center fits into that hole so the cutters can do their job efficiently, and you will have nice easy holes to drill that will stay on center.

Best of luck. You'll be fine and remember that the plastic block is replaceable so it is really hard to screw up.

New Yorker

Just what I needed to know. Thanks, man!

ZiG

Didn't see them in my local store but I need to do this too. Don't want to remove the bumper if I can avoid it because I just resealed my tail lights.

So instead I just whipped up a design for some clips that should fit very snugly in the 10mmx15mm holes and will use an M6 bolt. Heating up the 3D printer now and if it works out I will post the model for others to use.

ZiG

Okay, if anyone needs it: Mazda RX8 rear license plate bolt clip by xzivr - Thingiverse

I just installed mine and they are SOLID. If they fight you on the way in try to pinch the corners a bit and start on the outside edge.