I removed the plate from mine, front and rear. Then I had a bumper shop weld the bumper guard holes, and the jack slots closed. I removed the rubber spacers that extend the bumpers. I bought a full set of 1970 bumper brackets and bolted them on after re-chroming. They look great. It gives the car a very clean appearance. I have always loved the 73-74 E-body's, but hate the battering ram bumpers.