Well, I did it today. Pretty easy job. I also retrofit a chrome grille while I was at it. Below is a link to step-by-step instructions on how to fit the M7 Grille. I took photos as I went since I couldn't find any detailed instructions anywhere. I hope it helps somebody. http://share.shutterfly.com/action/s...&x=1&sm=1&sl=1


Here is the finished product. Maybe a little too bling, but I like it.


Edit: I just added the rear grilles tonight and I LOVE them! I cut away the aluminum insulation so you can see the Borla mufflers.




The second photo angle looks like there is a big gap between the bumper and grille for some reason, but there isn't.

 

can't wait to see it in person Rick.... the chrome top grille looks sweet

 

Great pics. I've been thinking about doing this myself, but I don't think I'd set it that far forward.

 

I wasn't sure if I wanted it to be recessed or forward but it is easy to change if I change my mind later. I also have a set of M7 rear grilles, which are next on the list to do.

 

I like it. Not a huge chrome fan, i did get the interior chorme pack :smile:, but I think the Chrome Grille and the Ultimate Grille look very nice together.

Also since I don't like any of the black trim I really like the look of the UG, and am very tempted to pick up both front and back.

 

How hard is it to fit the interior chrome pieces? I bought them from the dealer about a month ago but they are still sitting.


I don't like chrome accessories that look added on. I do like them when they look as though they are stock.

 

You need to from what I recall. The grill hole in the facia has a draft angle that makes it grow smaller as it travels to the rear. M7's grill is sized to fit near the front.

 

Yea, it's slightly more foreward than the stock grill. Once you line up the tabs for the screws, you'll know where it should go.

 

It can be recessed slightly but not much. I fit it fairly flush.

 

I got the chrome pack from the factory so I can't help you there, but I am pretty sure I read a post on here about putting it on and didn't seem to hard.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...chrome+install
Heres a link talks briefly about the install about half way into it.

 

[QUOTE=Rick-Anderson]How hard is it to fit the interior chrome pieces? I bought them from the dealer about a month ago but they are still sitting.


I don't like chrome accessories that look added on. I do like them when they look as though they are stock.[/QUOTE

They are a piece of cake. The toughest is the shifter ring it has an inner piece with the shift boot attached and make sure you line it up the same way. the alignment pins are different sizes. The vent rings turn clock wise to remove. Good luck

 

I just added two photos to the first post - the rear grilles were installed tonight and they look awesome!

 

How easy was the install on the rear grilles?

 

you made me check out the website for both front and rear grills! I would have bought, but I got side swiped by their CAI link almost working for us...my issue is deciding on black or silver for my black eyed purple ext.

 

Pour a Jack & Coke, remove wheels, remove rear flares, remove bumper cover, pour another Jack & Coke, drill holes, install grilles, cut rear insulation, cut finger, bandage wound, replace bumper - 2 hours under mild intoxication, probably a lot less sober with no accidents.

 

I like the silver but the black is also very tasty and shows the goodies under it a little better.

 

Ordered what is advertised as the M7 Ultimate Grille through www.outmotoring.com. Just received it, but I'm concerned about whether this is the same grille available directly thru www.m7tuning.com (for $10 less) that everyone raves about. There is an emblem (~1.5" x 4") in the lower front right corner that says "GrilleCraft" on it; don't yet know if it is removable or not. Outmotoring's web site shows what appears to be the same identical picture (and same name) of the grille as shown on the M7 site, WITHOUT the GrilleCraft emblem. I haven't removed the grille from the sealed bag yet, just in case it needs to go back (at a 11% restocking fee + return shipping no less!). It is made from metal, but curiously Outmotoring's web site makes no mention of the 2-year no-questions-asked warranty that M7 offers. Is this the same grille that everyone is raving about?

Thanks in advance,
Rhino

 

Rhino,


Yes it is. You can just remove the grillcraft logo with a screwdriver as it is held in place by two screws. It is made by Grillcraft, but Peter at M7 helped them design it to fit the Mini. It is a great grill, you will love it.

 

Hi there....

I just wanted to clarify, GrilleCraft makes these grilles for us ie. we are the exclusive distributors for the MINI grilles. out motoring does buy the grilles from us to distribute to their customers.
With another word you did get a M7 Ultimate grille.

peter
Team M7

562-608-8123

 

I did some prep for the rear grill's this afternoon, I'm now ready for this mod







The scrap...

 

TonyB,
Great pics- please be sure to update this thread with pics when you get the rear grills installed- I'm thinking of getting a set of those as well. Thanks!

 

Here is my rear. I think the black grilles would look a little better with the red.

 

Hey -

Nice work ...Now all you need is a grille for your hood scoop to complete the great look :smile:

Here's a link to the "Do-it-yourself" hood scoop how-to that I followed... turned out really good. People keep asking me where I bought it ...I tell 'em 'Home Depot'!!

http://www.tech-esq.com/MINI/how_to_...oop_grille.htm

Enjoy!! - - m