Rear License Plate Threaded Insert Replacement
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Member
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 86
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From: Michigan
1997 E320 2000 ML430
Rear License Plate Threaded Insert Replacement
I have a '97 E320. I need to replace a rear license plate threaded insert (mounted on the trunk). One of the screws seized and while attempting the removal, the insert broke loose and started to spin. I removed the trim underneath and used vise grips on the back and was able to remove the screw. It looks like these inserts are installed like a rivet so I assume the old one will need drilled out. I looked at the replacements at the dealer but they seemed to be one piece. They also had two styles, the only difference being the thickness of the shoulder where the license plate would rest. They may come apart but I did not try and did not buy one since I did not know which or the two I needed.
Can someone share the procedure for the removal and installation of these inserts?
Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.
Can someone share the procedure for the removal and installation of these inserts?
Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 3,860
Likes: 3
From: Jacksonville Florida
209/W210 Estate /W211 modded by MBENZNL
Re: Rear License Plate Threaded Insert Replacement
Originally posted by JLLG
I have a '97 E320. I need to replace a rear license plate threaded insert (mounted on the trunk). One of the screws seized and while attempting the removal, the insert broke loose and started to spin. I removed the trim underneath and used vise grips on the back and was able to remove the screw. It looks like these inserts are installed like a rivet so I assume the old one will need drilled out. I looked at the replacements at the dealer but they seemed to be one piece. They also had two styles, the only difference being the thickness of the shoulder where the license plate would rest. They may come apart but I did not try and did not buy one since I did not know which or the two I needed.
Can someone share the procedure for the removal and installation of these inserts?
Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.
I have a '97 E320. I need to replace a rear license plate threaded insert (mounted on the trunk). One of the screws seized and while attempting the removal, the insert broke loose and started to spin. I removed the trim underneath and used vise grips on the back and was able to remove the screw. It looks like these inserts are installed like a rivet so I assume the old one will need drilled out. I looked at the replacements at the dealer but they seemed to be one piece. They also had two styles, the only difference being the thickness of the shoulder where the license plate would rest. They may come apart but I did not try and did not buy one since I did not know which or the two I needed.
Can someone share the procedure for the removal and installation of these inserts?
Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.
To Remove them You will drill them out then replace the Nut cert
They have Metal Inserts that will work for this...
Snap On Tool Sells a kit as do other Tool Companies
Member
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 142
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From: santa barbara calif.
2004 clk500 coupe
Re: Rear License Plate Threaded Insert Replacement
Originally posted by JLLG
I have a '97 E320. I need to replace a rear license plate threaded insert (mounted on the trunk). One of the screws seized and while attempting the removal, the insert broke loose and started to spin. I removed the trim underneath and used vise grips on the back and was able to remove the screw. It looks like these inserts are installed like a rivet so I assume the old one will need drilled out. I looked at the replacements at the dealer but they seemed to be one piece. They also had two styles, the only difference being the thickness of the shoulder where the license plate would rest. They may come apart but I did not try and did not buy one since I did not know which or the two I needed.
Can someone share the procedure for the removal and installation of these inserts?
Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.
I have a '97 E320. I need to replace a rear license plate threaded insert (mounted on the trunk). One of the screws seized and while attempting the removal, the insert broke loose and started to spin. I removed the trim underneath and used vise grips on the back and was able to remove the screw. It looks like these inserts are installed like a rivet so I assume the old one will need drilled out. I looked at the replacements at the dealer but they seemed to be one piece. They also had two styles, the only difference being the thickness of the shoulder where the license plate would rest. They may come apart but I did not try and did not buy one since I did not know which or the two I needed.
Can someone share the procedure for the removal and installation of these inserts?
Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.
