Do the plastic inserts and large, coarse thread screws commonly seen on parts sites really cover from 61-77? They went back that far?

 

I believe the inserts were fairly typical, but the screw heads have been liberated. I’ve personally struggled with this conundrum myself.

 

My '68 uses 4 similar looking screws, but use the stamped spring metal speed nuts (I think that's what they are called). I'm confident they are original.

 

Do you think I'll get points deducted at a show for the black plastic HELP! brand ones I use?

 

Maybe.

That speed nuts info is good. Typically I run bolts through the plastic with nylocks on the back and antitampers on the heads. But, this car will get stock, and, 4 of them.

 

I've seen those as well but also see the nylon insert version.....

...this may have been a deal where it was WHAT THE CAR DEALER used at the time instead of what the factory did (ie - what style of fastener and nuts).

If potential originality matters you may be better off with a large pan head (or round head) SLOT screw head instead of a philips head. I pulled MANY of these things off salvage yard cars over the years and the large diameter slotted head screws were the most common. Can't guarantee anything and again, I think this stuff was dealt w/by the car dealer.

I also think the tips of the original screws were likely blunt instead of a sharp point...for obvious reasons on the rear plate setup.

 

Pic....

 

No worries - there are "License Plate Screw Head Encounter Group" meetings scheduled in many parts of the country for people like you. They are really helpful.

 

Stop badgering me Patton, I already told you that I’ll be there on Thursday!! Criminy!!

 

I have found some supposedly nos kits on ebay. Nylon insert, coarse screw with blunt tip, combo phillips and flat slot head. Appropriate finish. I will attach the plate with 4 of them as this plate does not have to come off.

Thanks for help.

 

Ended up plugging those into the license plate door on top. So that's two screws. They would not plug into the bottom so I used some speed nuts for additional bolts. Need to paint back of tag sometime.

 

photo off phone so double post.