C3 Bumper Cover Install - Rubber Bumper Blues

Unbolting the side retainers takes a little patience. On the '73 convertible we are using for this article, the location of the upper nuts does not allow even a ratchet. It's wrench-only and one sixth of a turn at a time.

Place the upper retainer on the bumper cover to show where the studs are located. Manually raise and lock the headlamps for better access to the nuts holding the upper retainer.

Fortunately, the majority of the studs and nuts are visible from underneath if you look hard enough. The exception is the outer nut. A very short extension on a 1/4-inch ratchet or a 3/8-inch-long socket will get the job done.

Let's hope that you don't face a motley assortment of fasteners like these when removing the bumper cover. These definitely are not original. Where did the repairer even find four-sided nuts?

Many brackets, reinforcements, and braces become visible when the front bumper cover and bumper bar are removed. A steel reinforcement is pop-riveted to the fender on the lower inside edge, and another brace is pop riveted to the fender on its front edge.

Always Bag 'em Danno. Take the time to label and bag the fasteners. You'll be glad you did when it's time for reassembly.

It's not a pretty sight with the bumper cover removed. This is one job you'll want to finish as soon as possible. The large steel bumper bar is normally hidden behind the cover.

Drill the four 3/16-inch rivets that attach the lower retainer to the bumper cover. The lower retainer is sturdier than the upper retainer and often can be reused.

Test-fit the upper retainer to the upper panel. Clear or elongate any of the holes if necessary.

The upper retainer is not symmetrical; one corner is trimmed. Place the trimmed corner up when the retainer is installed into the bumper cover.

It takes some effort to work the upper retainer into the bumper cover. Start by inserting the center two studs and then work out to the ends on each side.

Test-fit the bumper cover after installing the retainers. Center the cover to the top panel and then make sure the bumper can be moved up or down as needed to make it flush with the top panel.