Bumpers

[Garry]

Some time ago Mike Hughes wrote about the alignment of the rear chrome strips on the fenders.  However he also covered a cunning way to align the bumpers before doing the chrome strip alignment. Given that the bottom of the chrome strip should align with the bottom of the bumper it may help.

Quote from Mike
"The trim strip should be aligned horizontally, so that it appears from the side to be a continuation of one horizontal line, from the rear of the front wheel arch straight through to the rear bumper.  The problem seems to be that when you view the car from a 3/4 front or rear view however (especially from substantially above!), the taper of the body tends to make it look like it is "off" somewhat.  The descriptions given by the other responders seem to cover the proper alignment.  Be aware that there is some play to the adjustment of the rear bumpers themselves, which are attached by only two bolts.  You might try removing your rear strips, making a chalk line with a builder's chalk string, and then aligning the bumpers to the line before resetting your rear strips.”

Hope it all makes sense

Garry

[RobSirg]

Thanks Garry - that helps.
Hopefully my chrome strips are not skewed.

I was also wanting to know where they should be positioned in the rear panel. Should they directly sit over the corresponding contour? Mine are currently showing a gap of about 10mm between chrome and panel contour line.

This photo looks quite good from Solbekk

[Garry]

Rob,

I think if you set them by Mike’s method then they are both on the outer side going to be set at the same side trim height and from behind would then be opposite and horizontal to each other and the only adjustment that will vary will be the gap between bumper and panel. I do not have a “correct" figure but would think if you can get an even 10mm then that would be a good setup.

Garry

[Benz Dr.]

I try to get them evenly spaced from each side of the rear quarters while at the same time following the curve on the tail panel. Curves are on the outer sides of the license plate area.

[RobSirg]

Thanks Garry and Dr.,

I think I have enough to go by now. I wasn't sure whether the rear bumper line followed directly over the tail panel contour (curves) or whether it was just off to the side. Mine are current off to the side and are not evenly spaced. I will do the adjustments to hopefully get the line and level all correct.

Regards

Rob