Hi everyone:

My newly purchased R53 is currently in the shop for a new valve body but I am thinking about buying this no holes license plate bracket when I get her back. https://www.amazon.com/Cooper-HOLES-.../dp/B00F8O9ESC

How does this look? Unfortunately I live in a state where a front license plate is required. Sure looks better than drilling holes though.

Thanks!

 

This looks a lot more robust than the original GoMiniGo "No Holes" bracket I've had on my 2002 MCS for 14 years.

Cheaper than the Platypus from Cravenspeed.

 

Thanks! I will most likely order it. Can't wait to get the car back! The F55 (I think) loaner I have has a nice smooth ride but I totally miss my R53.

 

if you are the least bit handy you can make one for about $10 in bits from ACE Hardware. Start with a BIG bolt that matches the diameter and thread pitch of the towing hook .... you want something 4 inches long or so. Then a couple of washers and nuts .... maybe a flat piece of metal to form a backing plate.

Easy!

I decided to move to a no front plate state however ....

 

Another option would be the Cravenspeed one as it works well and easy install
https://www.waymotorworks.com/craven...te-holder.html

 

You can also get a twofer on the Craven tow hook and fab a plate from some mild steel to reuse the stud - super easy, just cut a tab to angle it and drill the mounting holes. On the track/show just pop off the plate and install the hook - no need to unthread the stud, so you can locktite it solid.

 

Thanks, everyone. As an update, I ended up just buying the Platypus one on Amazon because I am not the most handy. Sounds like it won't arrive until Wednesday but that is fine considering my plates haven't even arrived yet.

Also ordered a set of floor mats that should arrive today.

The car is running much better than before. Replacement valve body seems to really help.

 

Fwiw, the tow hook is a weird metric acme thread. Virtually impossible to correctly match at your local hardware store.