E53 front bumper skid plate replicas
 

I am in talks with Slimmbones (resides on the M5 forums and makes parts for those models usually) and he said he can replicate the plates in black polyurethane (not ABS plastic that is mentioned later in this thread) that are paintable.
This part gets added to your 3.0i or 4.4i (NOT 4.6 or 4.8iS bumpers) as it's "bare" (just black plastic) where it gets installed (where as the iS models already have lower valances here).

Part Number: 82110021339

COST
$275 USD shipped within the continental USA.
$350 USD shipped to Canada.
$400 USD shipped for rest of the world (as shipping is yet more expensive)

They will not be painted, nor holes drilled, before shipping as its smarter to get the paint job done when it arrives and the painters can match the color of your vehicle.
Rick is this time supplying plastic mounting rivets (OR you can buy and use three 8mm screws, the same as the ones that hold the bumper to the frame currently, as I did).

I do not daily come in to this site in winter (too busy with work), but you can also still ask/discuss here too.
Please feel free to read the comments from Pg 40 onwards about the quality of the plates from other members who have received them.

Cheers all, Mike in Calgary, Slimmbones in Cali.

UPDATE:
first few batches sent out in Mid October, 2014.
I LOVE the quality and flexibility of this plate. the OE is very rigid and I get scared in winter with it on. Rick's plates are sensational and seem extremely durable.

Anyhow, please continue to let Rick know if you're interested/still interested.
[email protected]

INSTALL TIP:
as a recommendation, I'd screw the bottom 5 tabs on first and THEN hold the top of the plate onto the x5 and insert the center screw first to create a starting point.
From there, press in on the left or right half of the skid plate to conform the plate body to the bumper and then screw the end in
Then do the same for the other end. this way it gets rid of any "wave"/gap that can form.

remember as soon as you make the hole for the screw into the bumper, there is no changing that mounting hole, so I'd suggest you test fit and press to fully see how the plate will sit when you have the screws in.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...c3ffac262c.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...db3faaa9eb.jpg

Mike, my hat's off to you for trying such an undertaking. I'd be glad to buy one from you if and when they're available!

Regarding the material, if possible, I'd suggest having it made from the same material as the original. The original material was used for a reason, and if you can make the new ones from the same, all the better.

Please keep us posted on the progress of your project. :thumbup:

Great concept and thanks for a solution that required thought and commitment to provide an out come (hopefully) that can be enjoyed by one and all. :thumbup:

Oh, The term your looking for is "reverse engineering" an existing item, in this case a auto part, to recreate and remanufacture for others. Use paypal and have all who send you funds to mark them as a "GIFT" so you are not selling anything. No tax issues, liability, etc, etc.

Exactly. As long as you're accepting gift money its all good and as long as you don't use BMW's name in any threads or reference the OE part you are replicating with part number, etc, and maybe you should name it differently so as not to infringe you should be good.

Although I doubt BWM would throw a lawsuit out for producing something that is no longer made and even Gary @ the factory said it wouldn't be made again.


And I second ABS plastic, do not do GFK, do not do fiberglass, ABS Plastic. I warn you though, it might be pricey to do with a minimum batch. Keeping posted and obviously if you ever scrapped the project you already know my deal :thumbup:

I was supposed to have found a plate locally from a member selling his X but he hasn't gotten back to me lately so not sure if he's keeping car after all or just busy but I'm subscribed to this thread.

Depending on how much I may be interested... I was thinking about putting the 4.6 piece on my X5, but if this is cheaper I'd go that route most likely.

GL with the task, Mike.
Don't tease me with your E31 in the pic. I'd love to own one some day. Post a pic NOW! :D

You could have a patent attorney check to see if there is one covering a particular skid plate or if there is some indication a company deems it proprietary.

I am not a patent attorney but have had experience dealing with competitor patents. While there is always risk if a product is patented, generally, there are avenues to avoid violation. In this case a change in design, method of attachment, function(s) or material could be enough. As I understand the part is out of production-that helps.

The only safe course is to have an experienced attorney document the company protecting the part extends permission. Unfortunately, all methods to stay out of trouble take time and money. I have only worked in U.S. corporations. In my experience patent violations always start with a cease and desist notification. If that didn't solve the problem our attorney would call or meet to see what could be done to resolve the issue without initiating what most often would be a nobody wins lawsuit.

I wouldn't think a skid plate is protected. They have been around for many many years so it is usually not cost effective to attempt to get any new offering protected but you won't know without checking---Sadly, this is the short story and far from all inclusive.

To lower the cost to U.S. customers, I would check if there are benefits to set up a quasi distributor in a cost effective location in the U.S. or wherever their is enough demand. Declared value would be lower as should overall shipping cost.

FYI- the start up costs are covered by the sales forecast and the offering price. The forecast is never accurate. You will sell notably more or less. Sales are usually less or come slower and target price is always a challenge to meet and still realize the justifying profit.

Mother of god Clockwork she is gorgeous

The exhaust sound must be amazing from the V12.
I'm always a fan of the E31. The 850CSi would be a worthy garage mate to my Z32 ;)

If I had one I'd try this:

Fill a shallow box with plaster of paris and use the skid plate to make an impression mold. With that, make simple fiberglass versions that the buyers could then trim, sand smooth, primer,and paint. Any facility that would look at making ABS versions would likely have minimums that could be in the 1,000s if the cost was going to be anywhere reasonable.

Just a thought.

I'll volunteer to test a prototype :thumbup:

wow, what a car Mike!

As for the skid plate, if the price is right, count me in! :)

Coming from the M5 forums, we have a dedicated member (like yourself) who fabricates all sorts of parts for the E39 M5 (e.g., Front Lip, Rear Diffuser, Fog Light Cover, Rear Spoiler, etc.).

Here's some examples of his work:

SlimmBones Front Lip - BMW M5 Forum and M6 Forums

Slimmbones Rear Diffuser GB - BMW M5 Forum and M6 Forums

E39 (96-03) For Sale SlimmBones XL Foglight Cover - BMW M5 Forum and M6 Forums

I suggest you reach out to him for advice (he's a great guy and does amazing work).

His user id is SlimmBones and name is Rick.

His e-mail address is: [email protected]

Maybe you can work together :thumbup:

SammyD, THANK YOU.
seeing as how the e39 M5 is my dream car, maybe i should get to know him incase i do get to buy my dream car one day (and the fact that he probably faced every question i'm looking to get answered)

Looking forward to updates if you get in contact with Slimmbones, but I feel like he's going to make it out of fiberglass to keep cost down.

Slimmbones makes good custom pieces. Good Luck, Mike.

Please add me to the list of certain buyers. And if you need any beta testers, keep me in mind... ;)

I'm obviously in Clockwork. If it's made of urethane/ABS and not fiberglass consider me a buyer.

You can add me to list as well.


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Would you be willing to ship overseas? (Denmark)
If you will, and shipping charges are within reason, I'm all in.

Freestyler, sending overseas at the buyers expense should not be an issue. the box will be large (4-5 ft long and 2 feet wide and tall approx) but the weight is very light.
will let you know. I'll hold off on putting you on the list for now, but PLEASE keep this thread in mind and check often (subscribe to the thread)

Thanks. You can be sure i will. :thumbup:

Clock, I think if you will simply copy the design, "they" will come after you...

if you will ask their permission to use their design, since there is a possible demand, and the part is no longer available, "they" might have an ongoing contract with the previous manufacturer that might prevent granting permission to a fourth party
if "they" grant you permission, "they" will expect the piece to be to "their" specs, so it will require you to use "their" molds, dies and whatnot...

On the other hand, if you do not use "their" design, but you are "inspired" by it and have your own design, you might (just might!) get away with doing what you are considering doing...

I am not sure if I need the skid plate or not, but hereby I am subscribed...

How does the plate attach? Existing holes? Does it fit on a 4.6?

It uses existing holes but for you 4.6/4.8iS people, the piece will not fit over your existing front bumper lips!

This decorative skid plate is only for "bare bumpers" E53 guys as it is an add on to the front


As far as "copying design" goes, if it was something that was just backordered or something like that goes, I understand, but we have a source at the factory saying these will never go into production again, so I would not be too worrisome about "them" as its not like you are taking an existing design and re-making it.

Our "over the pond" friends in Latvia make replica 4.6/4.8 diffusers and don't seem to get in trouble? I would just not use the same name when coming out with the manufacturing, instead of calling it decorative front skid plate how about "Add-on lower valance for non-iS bumpers"?

While I previously mentioned an option would be to contact them, I would not recommend doing so as there is no reason for them to say yes. Even if they do I think there would be cost and/or significant delay before you could proceed. I would change the design and/or shape. Under not circumstances would it be a copy. I agree with naming it something different.

keep in mind, there are much stronger patent/copyright laws in the US than in Latvia... for example, the copyright law protects the original author for the duration of his lifetime + 70 years after the death of author... patent protects for 20 years from the first registration... same item can be patented and copyrighted...

change design, call it something else, no need to contact anyone - similar to "stealthOne", or Resler ibus reader - those items are used in the car but unique to their authors...

Might be a good idea to put this idea over on Bimmerforums and Bimmerfest to see if you can get E53 owners interested.


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Literally you can add an extra mounting hole and it won't be copyright infringed, the design can stay as is

ok, so here's the word.
I just got a call from Slimmbones (resides on the M5 forums and makes parts for those models usually) and he said he can make the plates in black polyurethane and paintable and sell them for $275 USD shipped within the continental USA. They will not be painted before shipping as its smarter to get the paint job done when it arrives and the painters can match the color of your vehicle.
IF outside the USA, its $250 + shipping to you.

NOW, heres the fun part, Slimbones is asking for a minimum 10 ppl to get this going and also for everyone interested to pay half down now, then the other half after they have been created.
I know this is instilling a lot of trust, but its very fair to do so since he will be putting up his own money to pay for the mold/man hours to do this.
Anyhow, please continue to let me know if you're interested/still interested.
AND as soon as I get 10 people to buy into this, he said he can get them built within 3 weeks.
So let me know

The terms and pricing are fine to me, let's just round up our 10 guys.

The problem is finding non iS people to buy it

Kristophe

Kesslerbmw

StephenVA

SammyD? All posted interest I believe so far, I'd start pm'ing members and seeing if they want one.

What about ol uncle motordavid? Would look sharp on his 01

CW, will these be exact reproductions?

It will not have a part number or car manufacturer logo stamped onto it but rest will be same. Yes ive edited my first post so people may want to see it again.

Hey I'm in.

I appreciate all the legwork you've done on this, CW

My pleasure. Slimmbones should be a great gateway for us e53 owners to get other parts manufactured too by him. He offered his services. :) im glad to take him up on this.

Ricky Bobby pm'd me. I've now read the thread. I'm a tentative 'in,' pending a crawl under the front of mine to eyeball the existing bare-bones post-facelift 'sport' package vis the decorative skidplate. Since mine is sapphire black, I would probably leave it unpainted. ABS plastic, right? Clockwork, it might help to post comparison 'with and without' pix. At this pricepoint, looks good .......

Sport package changes nothing about the front end Riggo, it attaches to your bumper. If you own a 2000-2006 E53 non-iS model this piece will fit your car and was made for it.

I would paint it Black Sapphire if I were you but you could leave unpainted.

A better pic of it with:

http://www.xoutpost.com/attachments/...-xx-small-.jpg

Without (used your picture so you can see there is nothing there):

http://www.xoutpost.com/attachments/...-bmw-x5-2-.jpg

On the possible infringement issue: to quote [sort of] the inimitable Admiral Grace Hopper, "Its better to ask forgiveness than permission." I think that applies to this run of 10-20 parts no longer made by bimmer and possibly not protected by law.

Obligatory disclaimer: This is not legal advice. Proceed at your own risk.:thumbup:

Thanks for the pix, RB. It may be that unpainted will 'match' [sort of ....] the flat/grey ABS bumper trim on my ride [pictured in your post!]. If there is a choice of ABS 'color' when the run is done, that might be a selling point for doing a color that matches the standard BMW trim. If not, I can always have it sprayed black sapphire, as I had to do with my replacement driver door handle. Don't ask me why I had to replace the door handle ........:)

I concur. A few dozen or so "skid plates" made for an ardent group of E53 enthusiasts shouldn't posed any infringement risk since this particular part is discontinued and no longer available for sale from BMW.

I'm going to paint my plate silver and also remove and paint the inner grille screen that's mounted just above silver also. Should look sharp!

Question, how should we pay the down payment?

Does he take PayPal by any chance?

RB, thank you for posting those pics!

Kristophe, I'm asking Slimmbones if he wants to accept payments on a per person basis or if he wants me to wait till I have 10 people signed on for this, then accept payments from all.
this way not only a few people have paid him sporadically.

Halfway there guys! I pm'ed a few members and I suggest if anyone knows any "non-iS" owners to shoot them a message for this great opportunity.

Agreed that we should gather our 10, then Mike (Clockwork) should contact Slimmbones for his paypal info, then post the paypal address and give us the go ahead to send him deposit. Once he confirms all 10 paid their half then its 3 weeks of biting your nails boys.

I don't believe you can be sued for an infringement of sorts for reproducing their part. Just so long you don't claim its original. It should obviously for this purpose be labeled a reproduction part. People make reps of anything, from wheels to spoilers. Nothing illegal about it unless you are representing it as an original.

Bianca98, this is definitely NOT an original Equipment part, just a Replica of it. you're right.
It will have NO Logo or part number of any kind on there.

As much as i want to have this done right now... too many other things on the go... so i am out :( sorry boys...

Considering it's this hard to round up 10 buyers (non-iS) I'd say if you wanted to get in on this you should do it because I doubt there would be a second run.

SammyD is out as well I got an email from him last night, he just bought Style 87's and Titan Silver trim so he is tapped out for modding cash lol.

What the heck, having purged my oil filter cap sins in the confessional thread, count me in. I'm due for an E53 parts fix and this is a good or better than the alternatives immediately in front of me, since I haven't yet found a set of 132 style wheels [or comparables] locally to satisfy my summer tire jones .........:)

FYI i can machine the skidplates for members with electroplating or powercoating. Or can send them primed so you can paint match them. I made one for my truck, i just gotta finnish painting it. Its great you that want front end protection with a little style. $190 ea. Also if you want i can replicate the decorative skid for around 150-200 (have to price out materials and see if i can find one to replicate)

Clockwork, Count me in. Is the skid plate the same for 00-03 and 04-06 models? I thought the bumpers were different...?

Jungerishere, they are the same part :)
welcome aboard.

So Slimmbones is asking me to gather names/e-mail addresses once we reach MINIMUM 10 buyers.
So lets get those buyers
I'll mail them to him then he will send out the paypal requests of $137.5 USD right away, and then the day it ships out he will request the other $137.5 USD (or what ever your cost is, based on shipping to another country).

So we have 7 and need 3 more?

I count only 6

PM sent to Clockwork for the notice to Slimmbones ....

What about our friend from Denmark has anyone PM'ed him?

My friend Naz24 just sold his E53 or he would have bought one, I messaged X5SND but he doesn't feel it will flow with the theme of his X, SammyD is tapped out for funds as well as ukrcan, TiagX5 wasn't interested in the piece, I'll try to dig up some more non-iS members interest.

I also messaged Green Dragon for his 6-speed facelift Alpine White E53 but no response yet, will try to pm some more of the Manual Trans guys.

^There're a few new members lately with non-iS. I would try them too.

I want in but not sure if it will fit. 06 3.0i but I have the oem front grill guard will this still work. If it will mount still count me in. I will have to paint it to match the silver/platinum trim
My X is black but I'm hoping it will look like this
http://www.bmwmotorsports.org/x5_photo_gallery/x10.jpg

If your front grill guard looks like the picture, yes it will fit since the skid plate piece is installed in that picture lol. 2006 with non-iS bumper, yes it will fit.

Should we count you in?

Yes count me in.

Welcome aboard. PS: LOVE the bull bar. I almost bought an X5 with one, but the rest of the X was much to be desired. the best part about it was probably the bull bar. Anyhow, beautiful upgrade.

This is so freaking tempting. I've always wanted one for max but I think I have to service my front suspension first.
Unless someone wants to "gift" me one. Hey, you could always write it into your uncle sam report, right?... :p:

If that's me, then i am eagerly following this thread. And i am still very much in.

Mike,

Freestyler makes 8. 2 more to go.

Peregrin I'd gift you one but my accountant is already done with my taxes.

Get in on this man!

Freestyler, I did not add you before as a for sure because you are in another country and I figured you'd want to see what the shipping would be first. BUT consider yourself added to the list (refer to first post)

Slimmbones told me he mails stuff that is almost the exact weight/size (M5 lower rear valance parts) as this bumper add-on piece over to your side of the pond adn its not that expensive to ship. just as an FYI.

And that was exactly what we agreed to. So it's all good.
But seeing that Slimmbone has experience with overseas shipping, I have no worries at all committing to this.

We're on a roll now..............

need just 2 more buyers before I'll ship my OE part to the molder/pourer to start making these bad boys.

Clockwork, my hats off to you buddy.:thumbup: What a cool and ambitious project. I would so be all over this. The "boss" said no way. I'm over budget with a few too many projects. I have X5 induced A.D.D.

On a side note, if you or anyone is interested in getting it wrapped in a genuine carbon fiber weave of their choice (twill, plain, spread tow weave, in 1k, 6k, 12k or even 24k) let me know. I will be doing some carbon work this summer once finals are over.

Again, sweet project. Glad to see its doing so well. This forum needs positive stuff like this.

Will it work on my 2001 3.0?

ABSOLUTELY

May we add you to the list?

Where would I get the mounting hardware since it does not come with it? As specific as possible please.

The 5 lower holes are used with screws that already exist on the lower edge of the bumper. You would need 3 self tapping screws for the top, just need a coarse thread to screw into the bumper and hole it in place, I recommend stainless hardware or zinc so it doesn't rust, and using a rubber washer under the screws up top.

There is no standard size just go to Home Depot and get 3 screws that are long enough to screw the top portion in the bumper, and are small enough to not be too thick to fit in the holes on the skid plate.

Make sense?

Ricky bobby when I get mine it will just wait in the garage until you cough make the pdf install guide lol. Also paint reccomendations too since I'm going for that oem titaniun silverish look. Heheh.

you can NOT mess up this install. its the simplest thing EVER.
you remove the 5 screws on the bottom of your factory bumper, and fit this plate in and re-install the 5 screws on the bottom of the plate & bumper while a friend holds the plate.
THEN you get a small and I mean SMALL drill bit and predrill a hole, through the plates existing MOUNTING holes, into the black portion of your bumper. then install 8mm black screws available from BMW. ANY 8mm screw will do. AND if you want to be super careful, you CAN just buy some smalll rubber washers and put them between the screw and plate.
I've got mine mounted with no rubber washers and mine has never moved.

That's a perfect explanation Mike, I'm sure as well you can get some M8 Black screws from Home Depot as well, I prefer using a plastic/rubber washer as well because I don't like tightening a metal screw to a painted piece and not having the "buffer" in between.

If you want to go absolutely OE on the top 3 bolts, you'd have to drill larger holes in your bumper and use 3 well nuts and bolts, again, available from your local Depot:

http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/pro...9d22be_400.jpg

I may get some well nuts and bolts, as well as 3 M8 bolts and washers and see how I'm feeling on "install day", I do like what Mike is saying, with the M8 bolts you don't have to drill as large of a hole as the well nuts. If you want it to be double secure you could prob use a larger drywall anchor in the hole prior to screwing in the M8 bolts if you are worried about it ever coming loose LOL!

I'll be getting my Skid Plate painted Topaz Blue to match my exterior and give some added depth to the front bumper, however, painting Titan Silver is an option that would look good on ALL color E53's

the one I'm sacrificing is Titanium Silver and looks beautiful to match the titanium silver kidney grilles and hood vents.

Rustoleum has a Titanium Silver; will a rattle can suffice on a large surface of ABS plastic? Or are you guys have yours professionally sprayed?

get it pro sprayed. its worth it!!!!!
Cost me to get mine $400 but thats cause Calgary is very expensive

RB you could add it on next years ;) .... hahaha jk Thanks for offering though!
I think I'm gonna have to pass as much as I hate to this time.

Clockwork, thanks a lot for offering this to all of us!
GL with getting two more peeps and please post pics when you guys get them

Shouldn't cost more than $150, just take it to a body shop for paint.

Count me in... I have a 2005 E53 4.4..Thanks for putting this together...

welcome aboard.
its a nice aesthetics upgrade!! I get LOTS of compliments.

One more to go...! :rofl:

Sigh.. I want one but I'm waiting on a large sum of money before I can commit ironically my 2006 X5 is silver too. I'm confused though the picture shown is that the sports bumper? I have a 4.4i and I'm pretty sure I have the same bumper just not the valance.

Here's a pic of my front end.

http://picpaste.com/extpics/daytime-WVS6UpLs.jpg

Your bumper is a perfect candidate for the part some day. Thats exactly the bumper it goes on.

Ok for those serious to buy, PM me your paypal's e-mail address so Rick can send you a partial invoice. Then i will mail my part to him for him to replicate.
Thanks all.

Thanks for the response :thumbup:, that's awesome soon as I get my money I'll be contacting you lol
Probably going to do a bunch of stuff all at once. One other definite is wheel spacers lol

Ok, I will be your 10th, count me in.

Is it ok if I am the 11th?

I don't have a sport bumper if there is such a thing.

The more the merrier!!!!! I just needed at least 10.
Welcome aboard x5army and squidzilla

Pm me your paypal e-mail addy everyone

The more the merrier!!!!! I just needed at least 10.
Welcome aboard x5army and squidzilla

Pm me your paypal e-mail addy everyone

Awesome job Mike I pm'ed you.

Guys just so you know we just needed a 10 person minimum but awesome to have more!

Clockwork, PMed you but not sure my message is going through. My sent item shows 0. Let me know if you didn't receive my message.

Jungerishere, your msg came through twice. Pm me your e-mail you use with Paypal.

Message sent. Didn't realize this forum doesn't save sent messages. Thanks Clockwork for putting this together.

It only has sent messages when being used from Tapatalk I've noticed.

PM'd mine as well. CW, I'm greatly appreciative of your efforts in making this item available for us. You've certainly help make this forum very much a community.

Mercy I feel like a kid in a candy store. I can't wait get mine sprayed and installed.

ok, so I've requested the paypal addresses for the other two buyers and once I get at least one of them, I'll let Slimmbones know I'm mailing my skid plate to him to replicate and therefore your new parts should be coming to you in a month or so.
BUT just waiting on the remaining e-mail addresses :)

PM sent with PayPal count me In if not too late.. Found my other so easy and sold it.. Been kickin myself ever since.. Lol
Here's my Karma Ricky Bobby
Been forever since I been on here so hello to everyone!

Ahhhhh Cadesto you are back in the skid plate bandwagon! Told you never to sell it hahah

Good to see you back here, pm Clockwork with your Paypal address man!

UPDATE: So now that I have 10 interested parties who sent me their paypal addresses, I've sent all 10 to Rick (Slimmbones) and I'll be shipping my skid plate to him tomorrow. I just need to find a box to pack it in tonight.
SO keep an eye out for a Paypal invoice.

ALSO, anyone else wishing to buy one (pquast, lovemy03e53...) its not too late still. I can add names to the list anytime now that Rick is actually going to do a production run. BUT no guarantee how long he will offer the mold for, so perhaps buying sooner than later may be smart (assuming you can afford to do so).

Thanks for your good work on this, Clockwork. I'll look for the paypal request at my email. Hopefully, the ABS will match the stock BMW bumper color - if not, I may have to follow RB's suggestion and get this sprayed to match my Black Sapphire, though I expect primer/spray/clear coat will double the cost.

Riggo if you wanted it to blend with the lower black trim you could spray it yourself with Plasti-dip, that would be a perfect match and cost you 10 bucks.

But any body shop should be able to paint this piece color matched if you so choose to do so for 100-150 bucks tops.

I have to ask, why do you want to spray it the same color as your black saphire? you will not see its beauty if its left black. why not paint it titanium silver? it will look sensational, in my opinion, against the black, assuming you still have titanium silver kidney grilles.

personally, I do not like the idea of leaving it black, but hey, it will be your part to di what you like! :) give it a month and you can see yourself what the part looks like in a black color.

If I were going full-bore titanium, like RB, then I'd agree with you, Clockwork. Mine is more monochrome [I believe I have the black mesh grille, see pix of mine in RB's earlier post in this thread]. Given the location, I'm mulling the plasti-coat option instead of having it sprayed black sapphire. I have already received the paypal notice and paid the deposit.

Now that I look at pix, my grilles may be titanium silver. Funny, I never noticed. Figure I'll eyeball on receipt, then decide whether to plasti-coat, titanium silver, or body match black sapphire. Its nice to have choices :)

Got my invoice from Rick, I'll pay it later tonight, he is a fast worker!

Riggo here is your car with Silver plate:

http://www.xoutpost.com/attachments/...e-dsc01021.jpg

And here is one color matched, although I can't find a Black owner to color match:

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f8...s/HPIM0054.jpg


I'm going to go out on a limb here, but I prefer the color matched skid plate on the E53 because it adds a certain visual depth with the painted piece on the bumper, the silver to black (or other body color) might be a harsh contrast. You have Sport package so black window trims, etc, the Black painted plate to color match would look good, and be a subtle visual cue when looking at your X from the front, parked next to another, that yours is different.

However you have plenty of time to mull over the decision :)

Thanks for the pix, RB. Mine really does have more of a monochrome appearance than those in the pix, lacking the silver step rails, for example, and the kidney grilles are dark, so I'm leaning plasti-coat or painted black sapphire. We'll see .....

Glad you guys managed to find enough people to pull this through!
Great job Mike!
Now i will go hide in the corner and feel sorry for myself for not doing this to my car... that black facelift with skid plate that Ricky Bobby posted looks badass!

Ukrcan, you can buy one later if you like, the mold will be made, so others can enjoy the replica parts :)

Hey Clockwork,

I have not received the PayPal invoice yet! Did you get my e-mail?

yeppers.
check your junk mail perhaps. Rick should have sent it to all 10 of the people who'm have pm'd me their e-mail addy. Especially since you were one of the first.

I got it. I had to log in to my PayPal account. I normally receive an email from PayPal notifying me of an a transaction. All done. Thks. :thumbup:

Cool, i will jump in later this summer ...need that too ! Thanks a lot for this...

Looks sharp! My X5 is black with chrome stainless grille guard. I'm planning on painting my skid plate same color as the grille, titanium silver. :thumbup: Anyone have photo(s) with skid plate and chrome grille guard on X5?

Paid Rick's invoice, he is the man! I would have paid last night but I was a little bit occupied spreading 640 pounds of lime and 150 pounds of fertilizer on my yard in the middle of a rainstorm (I have just about an acre of grass to take care of, best time to fertilize when its raining)

That picture of a sapphire black E53 with 20" five spoke wheels, silver steps and skid plate is sharp. Also a better wax/polish than on mine. :) If I had the steps and wheels, I'd paint my ordered skid plate titanium silver, too. I'm in 'wait and see' mode on how to finish the skid plate.

I just paid mine. I just logged into paypal and the invoice was pending.

I just paid my invoice as well never saw email. Logged into paypal off of squidzilla's tip and there was the invoice.. Well we are halfway there now. 1 more invoice to go when its shipped. Thats exactly how I want my X5 to look. Except I have a satelite dish on top and bull bar.

my part was sent in the mail tonight, so Rick should be getting it in a week, then you guys get a 3 week turn around Rick said (once he received the part from me).
So you'll all get it just in time for summer is what my timeline was for :) I'm smart like that.

:thumbup:

Looking forward to it.

Hey guys if you didn't get the email from Mike (Clockwork) he is spending like $105 USD to send the plate to Rick (Slimmbones) so if you could all chip in like 10 bucks to his paypal since he is hooking us up and to recoup the shipping cost I'm sure he'd appreciate it!

I got the email, but not the attachment/explanation of the request. More than fair to help Mike/Clockwork with the shipping cost. Mike, given email issues, you might want to PM each of the 'investors' with your paypal info so you can be sure to get your shipping cost reimbursed.

many many thanks guys.
Yeah I'm not sure why the e-mail went through so funny from my iPhone. OH WAIT, I just figured it out, cause I sent it from my stupid iPhone.
anyhow, I appreciate everyone who has sent some cash!!!
I'm excited to see the replicas come, so you guys will have to take photos of the parts once you receive them and post them up please.

I too only received the two attached pictures but no explanation. I'd be more than happy to pitch in to help cover the shipping expense.

crap is this still open I didn't see in it in my email.
I'll check again.. I'd be more than happy to help out too.

update: just saw email- money sent.

again, thank you EVERYONE who sent me cash for the shipping of my plate to Rick. huge appreciation. I'm just as excited as you guys now to see/get a plate again hahaha.
I may start selling them locally if I can as I know others around me love the look but are sad at them no longer being made... but wait :)

Yes please. As your neighborhood a lil East im sure I w ould pick up one soon. As im just picking up my X next week.

ok, so anyone looking to buy these, please private message me your e-mail address that is connected to your paypal account and I'll let the builder know.
If you can not afford to buy the product now, then don't PM me till you can afford to do so, that way the builder isn't building a lot of extra ones at HIS cost and having them sit around.
but be mindful, he may only want to build them when he gets a FEW orders instead of one this week and one a month later...
right now is a GREAT time to put your order in as he is making 10+ right now.

RIGHT ON!:thumbup:

Well Guys we should be hearing something here in about another week that our skid plates are done and ready to ship out.

:thumbup:

Looking forward to it!

Ill let you know this weekend if I'll grab one or not.
Haven't seen the rest of the x5 since 3 weeks ago.
So not sure if it has one in front or not.
I'll try to confirm ASAP....

Is shipping different for CDN"s? Im guessing product is coming from the states?

A watched pot never boils so I'm just patiently waiting, can't wait for this!

Kristophe, you're so right!!
I just got an e-mail from Rick last night saying he received the skid plate late last week and plans on beginning the process tomorrow. SO it should be very soon now.

goodie2sandles, Private Message me if you decide you want one.
it will cost $250 USD + shipping to Canada. It just cost me $110CAD to ship it down there, just to give you an FYI on shipping costs back. but who knows. Slimmbones makes other products and ships with proper box size, so it may be cheaper.

I checked out out some well nuts/bolts and while they seem to be a bit more secure I'm leaning more toward a zink color wide headed screw instead.

update from Rick (Slimmbones) the manufacturer. Hope you don't mind waiting for quality.

Mike,

So my eta start to finish is 4weeks as of 4/28/14 and looking at a ship date of 5/28/14 for the black polyurethane x5 front skid plate I will keep you updated with process and pictures

Slimmbones

Thx for the update, Clockwork, works for me ....

For quality I do not mind waiting! It will be on by bimmerfest and that is good enough for me!

Do you guys think an OE Bull Bar and a skid plate would be overkill?

nope not at all. Same question I asked. Look back in the beginning of the thread, someone posted a pic of a black X with both options - looks nice together.

very nice together.
where can your source a bull bar? I love the look of those things, but was told they are expensive and very rare to find.

Ecstuning

:iagree: and choice of color is very important to how well they look together and with the vehicle.

I unfortunately overlooked your post where you included a link to an X5 that had both the skid plate and Bull Bar: http://www.bmwmotorsports.org/x5_photo_gallery/x10.jpg

I'd like in if it's still possible. I PM'd but have not heard back.
Steve

Steve, sorry, I didn't get a msg from you, but I just sent you one.
you're definitely allowed to buy one.

Hey guys!

Not sure if this has been asked yet - but I was wondering if anyone knows the paint code for these? Im assuming its the same as the Titanium Kidney Grills, but I have no idea what the paint code is to match it. Would it also have a flat clear coat as well?

Thanks :D

If 'by these' you mean the sample pix showing titanium silver, it should be the same code as for the BMW titanium silver, which I don't have at my fingertips. You will need to clear coat to get the matching finish. I'm going to inspect the replica skid plate before I decide whether to leave as is, in black plastic, plasticoat it flat black or get mine sprayed [w/clear coat] Sapphire Black metallic to match my body paint.

Titan silver is code 354 if you need it.

I would like to match the skid plate to titanium silver on the grille which is slightly difference shade than the BMW body paint.

This ^ :thumbup:

Im looking for the actual color that that part was painted to from the factory.

Rb is right. The Titanium silver is code 354

The Titan silver grilles are painted to 354, but they are just sans clearcoat, or they have a matte clearcoat, I gave you the info you needed lol, just tell the body shop you want it done in a matte Titan Silver

Volvo's Mystic Silver 426 seems to have more of an aluminum look.

Thanks guys! I really appreciate it. Cant wait to get one on my X5!

update:
So the forest fires in the San Diego area have forced Rick out of his home and shop and only now has he gotten back in.
SO try not to be disappointed when you hear the timing is 2 weeks late because he had to leave for safety.
I am just glad to hear Rick and his family are safe and able to be back home now.

http://img1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb2...disappoint.gif

At least everything is ok though....

As long as it didn't burn down his operation I'm good with it lol

I was just wondering how this was going today.

Carter

no, his house and shop were not burned down.

I was in LA on business back in 2004 while the Santa Ana winds were blowing and brush fires were occurring ALL OVER the place out there. It was crazy as many homes were destroyed in mere hours. Fortunately he was able to return to an intact home and business.

update! Rick sent me this pic this morn with no description.
I'm assuming its either the mold, or the first plate he's built as mine sent was titanium silver.

should be getting a verbal update over the next 24 hrs I'm hoping.
BUT to everyone's excitement, yes this black skid plate looks exactly like the OE plate.

^^^Exciting :thumbup:

So awesommmme! :yikes::popcorn:

We are sure he is making abs plastic and not fiberglass right?

He might be making the fiberglass shell that will hold and reinforce the silicon mold together when he pours in the plastic so that the mold doesn't shift or warp.

...but I could be wrong.

so he keeps telling me. I'm thinking maybe the fibreglass in the pics is the mold.

Sure looks to me like he's already made a black mold underneath and is showing a skid plate in the making using a fiberglass process

Clockwork maybe on your next update could you kindly confirm in writing from Rick about the details? I don't doubt that he did say he is making them out of ABS plastic, but I did notice on M5board he sells a lot of fiberglass work too...

RB, I'll get a comment from him. I do know when he and I spoke I told him it can NOT be made of fibreglass and even he recommended the abs plastic material and has since not said anything otherwise.
I'll get confirmation though.

Then I'm not too worried if that's what was said.

It is probably all part of the process since I know zero about molding plastic parts

hello all

Just came across this thread and really lovin the product. Is it too late to purchase a skid plate??

no its not.
Please send me your paypal e-mail address (so Slimmbones can send you an invoice for half of the cost), and your name, in a private message.
Rick is building them now.
I assume you read the first post and understand the charges being invoiced?

So I got confirm today from Rick.
here is his statement
No fiberglass it would take me a lot longer because I could only make one a day if fiberglass

makes sense and since he is looking to make many, his time is limited.
He will update me more with timeline on the weekend

http://troll.me/images/preacher/than...esus-thumb.jpg

been waiting a while to throw that pic up huh? hahaha

We should be getting close, guys

Rick said he should have them all done over the last weekend and this weekend upcoming. Hope he does for you guys. Its getting into summer season already.

No worries, I'd rather him take the time to make them perfect, now I gotta figure out what other body work I need while I'm "in the shop already" lol

cant wait to see this baby! SO PUMPED!

Since we are getting close - its time to prepare the hardware used to install this. I understand that it utilizes the current bolts that hold the bumper in place underneath, but what about the 3 that get attached to the top piece? Does anyone have any good, upclose pics of the mounting hardware?

All you need is some metric self tapping bolts and screw them into the plastic bumper. Clockwork can chime in, I was probably going to try and get some stainless or black allen bolts and maybe a rubber washer between the bolt and skid plate interface for cushioning

So I spoke with Rick and sent him the PDF of the install manual/sheets and he said he is going to try to track down the proper hardware (I sent him mine) so he said it should come WITH the install sheets and 3 requires screws for the top of the plate ;)
but he has yet to guarantee that to me.

nice Mike, real nice. Not necessary to supply the hardware but would be real cool if he did!

I really like your idea of allen screws/bolts. I love how an allen head looks. meaty.

the OE part comes with bolts and rubber nuts )which widens as you screw into it) but that way means you have to drill a relatively large hole in your bumper to insert these rubber nuts. I just used a small 8mm self taping screw. that way if I ever remove the skid plate, there is just 3 teeny tiny holes that are not seen by the eye. and could be filled in with black caulking, if for some reason needed to be.

well he knows the part numbers and has the physical parts to see, so we shall see if he has time to order them before he has his plates done for delivery.
again not a guarantee but he did suggest that to me and that is why I shipped him the mounting hardware.

Yes I know the stock setup used to come with well nuts and fine thread metric bolts, which you can use and get at your local Home Repo but you're right, you have to drill much bigger holes

http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/pro...69eb3f_400.jpg

I have to go to the Repo anyway to find some new stainless license plate screws (damn rust) so I'll look for some allen self tappers while i'm there.

Having the fasteners in the kit would be nice. I've been eyeballing SUVs with skidplates lately [Volvos, etc.] and am rethinking my initial rejection of having mine painted titanium silver. They look pretty good even with a pretty monochrome paint scheme otherwise. I'm thinking silver might look better than body match black sapphire . . .

Rig, it will. it sooooooooo will.
if you're keeping it black, you LITERALLY will not see it down there on the bottom

Is it too late to get in on this? I NEED one ;)

^ :xoutpost:

Thank you so much TMV! :thumbup:

PS: yes Rick IS looking into sourcing the fasteners now :)

You should make some Le Mans fender flares next :eeps:

Honestly tell Rick just to finish them I can source M8 bolts after the fact :)

Bump for progress :)