DTP Presents... e36 Trunk Reinforcement Plate

[darkhorrus]

Dthompson.Productions Proudly Presents

E36 BMW Reinforcement Plate

As an enthusiast who has owned several e36 BMWs, one of the most frustrating issues I have encountered has been dealing with the trunk. Due to thin sheet metal (1.8-2.2mm) near the trunk latch as well as poor angular placement, the metal often develops stress cracks near the two bolts holding the latch in place. These cracks elongate and deepen, eventually causing the sheet metal to tear. When this happens, the angle of the latch is altered and the trunk no longer “wants” to shut. As this is not something a driver would normally think of, drivers (such as myself) often find themselves slamming the trunk in an attempt to close it, which can cause the latch to jam, creating a problem in itself.

This problem is well known for those with spoilers (especially those who track their car) and very common on e36’s without a spoiler, including the 3 I have owned, as well as about 95% of the e36’s I’ve seen.

Once a problem, you generally have a few options:
Repair old trunk lid: Welding/reinforcing the area with additional steel (then painting): $300+
New/Used Trunk Lid, Optional Reinforcing and Paint to match vehicle: $450-$700++

I present a 3rd option (recommended for all trunk lids including fiberglass/carbon fiber),

Available Exclusively at our online store:

http://dtpsales.tictail.com/

Find us On facebook at:
https://www.facebook.com/DThompsonProductions

DTP e36 Reinforcement Kit
$35.79 +$4.74 Shipping within Continental USA

100% Designed and Manufactured in the USA
Laser Cut from 10 gauge 304 Stainless Steel
Designed Specifically for BMW e36 and BMW’s using that latch style (OE #51248209730)

Fits all e36 (except ti) OEM Panels (fitment issues reported on aftermarket brands such as VIS)


Stainless Steel Hardware Included
(2) Extended Length m6x1.0 Bolts (replaces Latch Bolts)
(4) Security Torx Metal Screw (Optional for Installation)
(1) Dewalt t-15 Security Driver Bit








Installation Instructions
1.)Open Trunk Lid
2.)Check clips holding plastic trunk trim in place
3.)Remove t20 Torx screws holding latch
4.)(Recommended) Spread a small amount of silicone (not included) on back side of plate (to keep moisture out)
5.)Line Reinforcement Plate up
6.)Install Extended-length Hardware
7.)Drill in centers of holes at corners and install Torx Screws (optional)

Pictures(from around the web- please message if you wish me to remove)

(Photocredit: Drew Stephens - Flicker 2010)


(Photocredit: e36coupe328 - bimmerforums.co.uk)


(Photocredit: dj outofsight - bimmerforums.com)



Links
http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?1170315-Trunk-won-t-shut

http://www.bimmerforums.co.uk/forum/...elated-t56434/

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum...-7-Pics!!-HELP



Legal Disclaimer:
Extensively tested (6 months) on my own e36 (daily driven) as well as 2 others, and tested to be proven to work on over 200 vehicles, the DTP Reinforcement plate is intended as a preventative measure to prevent cracks and metal failure. With proper installation precautions, plate can be used to repair some trunk metal failures (depending on the severity of the damage). Despite this testing, it should be recognized that use of excessive force on the trunk lid may still cause metal fatigue and failure. Due to this, owner assumes full liability for any damages caused to their trunk.

[NHbmw325I]

What if the latch holes are already torn? Can't I still use this no problem?

[pDubs]

Interesting. Mine are cracking as well. I have been meaning to have them welded back up then just mask and spray it with rattle can.

[twastheglow]

How do I get the special forum pricing? On your site the shipping is more than quoted here not to mention there's tax listed on your site...

[darkhorrus]

Interesting. Mine are cracking as well. I have been meaning to have them welded back up then just mask and spray it with rattle can.

You can do this however the cracks usually come back unless you add reinforcement material to it.

How do I get the special forum pricing? On your site the shipping is more than quoted here not to mention there's tax listed on your site...

PM or email me at dthompson.productions@gmail.com with your paypal address and I'll invoice you for the proper amount.

What if the latch holes are already torn? Can't I still use this no problem?

It depends on how torn they are. This plate was developed as a preventative measure to prevent the tearing however on 2 trunks I was able to re-align and install the plate. Once the plate is properly aligned and installed (with the optional screws in the corners), the trunk should latch again.

[NHbmw325I]

Thanks for response. Where do we get the bimmer forums price so that shipping is less? I want to buy this piece. Please PM if that helps

[twastheglow]

Thank you. Payment sent this morning.

Thanks for response. Where do we get the bimmer forums price so that shipping is less? I want to buy this piece. Please PM if that helps

He PM'd me for my PayPal address and sent me a proper invoice.

But as an FYI, you need to set up a coupon code for the "special pricing" and post it in here.

[SmokedBMW23]

I was not aware this was an issue. Hmm ill have to check mine.

[Spyke]

I like the idea and the product. Even the packaging is super nice! I have a buddy who has this exact problem, and I have a carbon trunk that (so far) does not. I would prefer mine stay that way...

Any chance you have any, or could make any without the cutout logo in the center?

[twastheglow]

I like the idea and the product. Even the packaging is super nice! I have a buddy who has this exact problem, and I have a carbon trunk that (so far) does not. I would prefer mine stay that way...

Any chance you have any, or could make any without the cutout logo in the center?

It looks like he has a ton of pre-cut with the logos and ready to ship. I would assume he'd like to burn through that stock before cutting more. I guess it doesn't hurt to ask though. You won't see it with your trunk lid closed anyway.

[Spyke]

I assumed the same... I just absolutely despise logos plastered on Every. Single. Part. of the car.

Somewhat hoping less material missing from the center 1/3 would make it a tad bit stronger too.

[twastheglow]

I assumed the same... I just absolutely despise logos plastered on Every. Single. Part. of the car.

Somewhat hoping less material missing from the center 1/3 would make it a tad bit stronger too.

Normally I agree, but this part is installed on such an obscure part of the car that I don't care.

And I highly doubt that added "rigidity" of a solid piece of metal would make ANY difference in what is being reinforced/supported/braced.

I purchased a "kit". More convenient than sourcing the parts myself. Call it lazy, but for ~$37 shipped to my door, that was worth it to me.

[Spyke]

I know, I know, I'm just particular. When you have a car that has more aftermarket parts than BMW ones, the overabundance of logos gets to be nauseating. Honestly I get really mad about the roundel on everything too.

I can settle if I have to.

[darkhorrus]

Normally I agree, but this part is installed on such an obscure part of the car that I don't care.

And I highly doubt that added "rigidity" of a solid piece of metal would make ANY difference in what is being reinforced/supported/braced.

I purchased a "kit". More convenient than sourcing the parts myself. Call it lazy, but for ~$37 shipped to my door, that was worth it to me.

I was not aware this was an issue. Hmm ill have to check mine.

Feel free to PM me if you wish to order a plate. Its a pretty common issue on these- I'd say about 90-95% of the e36's I've seen have this problem.

I like the idea and the product. Even the packaging is super nice! I have a buddy who has this exact problem, and I have a carbon trunk that (so far) does not. I would prefer mine stay that way...

Any chance you have any, or could make any without the cutout logo in the center?

I know, I know, I'm just particular. When you have a car that has more aftermarket parts than BMW ones, the overabundance of logos gets to be nauseating. Honestly I get really mad about the roundel on everything too.

I can settle if I have to.

Thank you for the compliment. I designed everything from product to packaging myself.

The idea of one without the cutout crossed my mind however I have another company laser cut the plates for me. Because of this, I have to order in quantity to keep the cost down. I may re-order additional plates without the logo in the future however for now, I only have plates with the logos.


Also, I apologize for the delay in updating this. I currently have limited internet (satellite based connection) and can only really get online between 2-7am est.
I did ship out a few orders yesterday and any ordered before 2pm eastern time I'll have in the mail tomorrow. As far as a discount code goes, for now, feel free to PM or email me your Paypal address at dthompson.productions@gmail.com and I'll invoice you for the proper amount. I'll be fixing this in the next day or 2 and when I do, I'll post up a coupon code for anyone interested.

[Spyke]

Thanks for the response, I certainly understand your position. I already referred my buddy to you, and he's going to grab one. PM'ing you my Paypal address for an invoice now.

Thanks again!

[Paulito]

HAHA i was wondering why there is tape over that area. Ill have to check mine later!

[twastheglow]

I just received my kit. I have to say, I personally think it's worth the money without a doubt. It's packaged well and is certainly made of quality materials. I like that the bit for the 4 smaller screws is included in the hardware baggie. I will definitely be utilizing those too. I'm going to silicone it to the truck lid so moisture doesn't get in there then bolt/screw it down.

Anyone who is on the fence about picking this up should do it. Worth the ~$37 to my door!

[Spyke]

Paid up, thanks! I love cool little products like these.

[Paulito]

Yep mine is cracked. My buddy's is also cracked. Going to check my brothers. Might need 3

[darkhorrus]

HAHA i was wondering why there is tape over that area. Ill have to check mine later!

Definitely worth checking the area for cracks. Let me know if you need me to send you an invoice for the kit

I just received my kit. I have to say, I personally think it's worth the money without a doubt. It's packaged well and is certainly made of quality materials. I like that the bit for the 4 smaller screws is included in the hardware baggie. I will definitely be utilizing those too. I'm going to silicone it to the truck lid so moisture doesn't get in there then bolt/screw it down.

Anyone who is on the fence about picking this up should do it. Worth the ~$37 to my door!

Thanks, I'm glad you received yours so quickly. Let me know if theres anything else I can do for you

Paid up, thanks! I love cool little products like these.

Thanks, Payment Received. I'll have yours off tomorrow.

Yep mine is cracked. My buddy's is also cracked. Going to check my brothers. Might need 3

Let me know how many you need. If you require 3, I'll extend the free shipping (orders over $100) option off my Tictail store to you. Feel free to PM me with your PayPal address, how many you need and I'll send you an invoice for them.

[twastheglow]

[darkhorrus]

Nothing Beats a satisfied customer. Thanks for posting up the installed picture!

Shipping out a few orders tomorrow, order before 12pm eastern time to get yours in the mail!

[Xbladr]

I am subbing I need to check mine when I get home in the morning. I may be ordering one as well

[liilpa09]

Just a heads up, I purchased 2 of these for my cars....these plates are top notch in terms of quality appearance and packaging....however, it does NOT fit with my VIS carbon fiber trunk. I'm assuming the VIS trunk is wider in that area than a factory trunk and hits the plastic valence piece that is attached to the area around the bar that the latch connects to and the trunk does not close.

Looking forward to getting this on the yellow car this weekend that has a factory trunk.

Don't want to clutter this thread but if anyone needs one brand new just test fitted for a discount PM me.

[Spyke]

Oh...crap. I have a VIS carbon trunk also.