(Another) Number Plate Query

[mrges]

Considering changing the number plate - and looking through this thread see that this type seem legal (and will pass NCT)

Plate 3.jpg

I then looked at getting a bracket to fit this type of plate, and see that it seems to fit in through the air dam opening on the front valance. However, I have spots fitted and a mesh grille - would these hinder the location/fitment of the bracket? (I think either they may do so).

Front 2.jpg

Front 2.jpg

Alternatively, anyone had experience of putting the plate here? (as in any hassle with NCT/Guards etc?)

Plate 1.JPG

I don't like the way the plate sticks up at the front, and just looks "nailed on" (even though that is the case). Anyone know if there are surrounds that look neater? I have a "rounded" plate holder from an old BMW that I'll have to try find, as I think it might look better (tho it is white, but I'm sure could be got in black).

Any photos of alternative plate holders would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Graham

[Steve]

This one clamps to the front tow hook
http://www.autolinkmx5.com/number-plate ... 6620-p.asp




I have a "stick on" right on the front of the nose. Never had issue. I do have an "NCT plate" also though

[MX5Spares]

On cars up to and including 1991 digits themselves can be any size!! After 1992 its 110mm I think(standard size anyway) .Interesting.I have small front side mounted plate on mine and never any issue with NCT .I have extract somewhere from licencing authority

[mrges]

Thanks for the replies. That looks like it might do the job, Steve (will explore that further). Have you tried to pass the NCT with the "stick on" plate? (Or when you go for NCT do you screw on a front plate as well?). With regards to the sticker - where did you get it from? (that would really be an easy option - except from filling and painting the holes on the front!).

And it's a '93, Robert, so will probably play safe and go for standard size digits!


Thanks again.

[MX5Spares]

Stick on plate must be reflective backround, not just white. And of course have blue logo , county etc.

[Steve]

Yes, I put on a front plate over it.
I asked nicely at a local printers and he did 3 for me, haven't need to replace the 1st one yet, its holding up well.
Some pics of it in here :
viewtopic.php?f=54&t=7480

[mrges]

Thanks again for the info. Interestingly, I was passing the NCT Centre on the way home from work and decided to call in. Showed the guy two photos - one, an MX5 with Square plate on front and one with sticker. He said square plate should be ok. As for the sticker.... admitted he hasn't a notion. Went and printed of a10 page or so document from NCT web site and went through it (and have me pages regarding letter size etc), but said he could find no official info on sticker plates. His suggestion was that I contact customer services.

[mrges]

This is the info the NCT guy gave me:

Plates 1.jpg

Plates 2.jpg

[Pops]

Found the NCT manual, 100 pages but reg plates is chapter one https://www.ncts.ie/media/1004/nct-manual-july-2014.pdf
The plate dimensions given are too tall for the rear of a jap rear panel , so if a smaller plate is allowed on the rear ( as mine is and passed nct no problem) would it matter so much for the front I wonder .

[mrges]

Hmmmm - I had assumed the front plates, offset, were rear the size of the rear plates (which i didnt know were smaller on imports).

My query related to using a sticker number plate - and I can find nothing in the NCT manual that relates to location (and as above, the tester said he hadn't a clue if it was ok or not. When I asked if I turned up with a sticker plate would it pass, he said he didn't know - and to contact customer services). I'd a thunk something so simple would have had an easy answer.... it's hardly a major technical issue!

[leamyj]

Hmmmm - I had assumed the front plates, offset, were rear the size of the rear plates (which i didnt know were smaller on imports).

My query related to using a sticker number plate - and I can find nothing in the NCT manual that relates to location (and as above, the tester said he hadn't a clue if it was ok or not. When I asked if I turned up with a sticker plate would it pass, he said he didn't know - and to contact customer services). I'd a thunk something so simple would have had an easy answer.... it's hardly a major technical issue!

The problem , as I see it, is that they don't have a machine to determine the answer..they have to use their discretion...This freaks them out...

John

[mrges]

Unfortunately I think that's the case. About 4 years ago I took a car for NOT with the German style lettering on both plates. Passed no problem. Two days later took my wife's car to same centre for its test - also with same style of plates.... and failed on plates alone. When i mentioned that i had been there two days previously and another tester (who i pointed out) had passed same plates, he wouldn't budge. (So home, swap plates, drive back, pass, drive home, swap plates).

[93 Mk1]

Here's my personal experiences with the NCT and number plates:

Sticker type on front - failed !
Offset rectangular front - passed last year
Offset rectangular front - failed this year !

It's akin to a lottery I tell ye....that's why NCT stands for "No Consistency Test" !

[mrges]

FFS!!!

I contacted NCT customer services with my query.... Will see if that brings any joy (tho I'm doubtful).

[mrges]

Well - here's the official word from the NCT..
..

Dear Graham,

Thank you for your recent email.

I have reviewed the test manual in respect to your query. Unfortunately, it would be unacceptable to use a stick on registration number.

The NCT manual refers to an actual plate which is constructed of reflex reflective material.

I regret that I am unable to reach a more favourable outcome. Please do not hesitate to contact me should you require further assistance.