Back Bumper Tailpipe trim

[tiger333888]

Hi Guys,

Does anyone know how to properly replace/refurbish the curved piece of trim (made of aluminum/steel/alloy?) that sits just above the exhaust tail pipe and which is attached to the lower edge of the back bumper...I think it acts as a heat shield to reflect exhaust heat away from the lower bumper.

After 2 years, mine has gone all flakey and peeling, looking decidedly past it's best before date. I think it is held on with some simple rivets.

I tried using wire wool to rub the trim down but with little success (incidently, wire wool works a treat to clean up and polish the tailpipe trim itself when it becomes discoloured from being exposed to the fumes).

Any feedback would be most welcome.

Tiger

[leeme3]

What car? 996?

[tiger333888]

it's a 2003 986 Boxster 2.7

[leeme3]

I've not done the job myself but recall someone I know has done - I'll check with him when I get home but I think you have to drill out the rivets (use a slow drill and start with a small bit and work up so as you don't enlarge the holes). You can then rivet the new plate in place but I think there is some adhesive or sealant involved to stop water sitting behind it. ...and I guess you'd have to get the new part from an OPC unless you get lucky and find a decent one in a breaker's yard.

[tiger333888]

that's really helpful - tips to remove and refit. As I wrote, my plate has gone all flakey, OPC want £50 for the new part. Did you have this problem too? I was a little disappointed that it looks this knackered only after 2 years...

[leeme3]

A pal had to have this done on an early 996 and I think in the end he 'refurbished' the original plate. No idea what metal it is (which will dictate the refurbishment method of course). Might be worth popping the car to a local decent bodyshop and see what they reckon - the art of restoring metal trim on cars can't be completely dead!

[tiger333888]

Thanks again...a good suggestion. I think it is aluminium as when I starting rubbing it with the wire wool it started disintegration very quickly - indicating it was made of very soft metal. If it is tricky to refurb, I will order a new part from OPC to save hassle (but not cash!) - the look will be faithful to the factory design too. Happy driving.