Apollo

Hello,

I need to replace both grilles as most of the tabs are broken or cracked.

My question is do I have to remove the stone shield to replace the grilles?

442Harv

Years ago I changed mine on my 72 VC. I don't remember having to remove it, but I think I had to loosen the bumper, and let it drop a little.

Will22

I replaced mine last year and did just as you said.

VI Cutty

I've done it without loosening the bumper and leaving the stone shield in place...but it was a PITA and probably only possible due to other broken tabs.


I'd strongly recommend spending the time to do it the right way to avoid unintentional breakage and extended strong cursing.

Allan R

The 72 grills (even the 442) need to slide down into the stone shield for the inboard alignment tab to seat into the top slot of the stone shield. If you undo all the mounting screws on the top of the radiator support, that will allow the stone shield to drop enough to do the change. You'll get best access from below with the other tabs,and removing the air dam will give you better sight lines and access.

Apollo

Fusik has the grilles at a reduced price of $295, so I bought a pair.

My CS has the bumper guards on it which really complicates the swap out.

Further, I don't see how these things are going in without removing half the radiator, LOL ...

Definitely letting my body shop do this job.

Allan R

You can do this pretty easy if you remove the front bumper brackets and detach the bumper as one unit. You'll need help for that. That gives full access to the stone shield.
Or what you can do is remove the air dam (5 bolts IIRC) and access the grills from underneath.