Rear number plate
Since owning CRG163 back in 2002 it has always been assumed that the vehicle’s rear number plate was as fitted from new.
The original number plate frame found underneath when what was thought to be the original plate was removed.
However when all rear panels were removed earlier this year (2025) for restoration we found the original frame underneath to a different shape, as seen below:
The original rear number plate frame. The rear number plate lights sit behind the frame.
The shape of frame found resembles other Crosville preserved coaches such as CRG103, CRG106 and CRG111. We also found that the vehicle had sustained rear end damage at some point when panels were removed - presumably during the vehicle’s working life with what appears to be replacement panels and number plate.
By now this has been rectified through restoration which has included all new woodwork, straightening, new fabricated rear panel and a new aluminium frame for the number plate that sits on top of the panel sourced as seen from the photograph below.
The new aluminium rear number plate frame being tested in position against the original under frame found when panels were removed.
Has anyone had this shape of rear number plate produced before having been in a similar situation? If so, what company was used and does anyone have contact details they could share please? Would the rear number plate have been glass or perspex? It appears that the plate would be fitted into the frame and held by a rubber gasket.
Here is a photograph of the same section on preserved CRG106 (AFM 106G) as a guide which is very similar to CRG163.
Rear number plate frame measurements
The photographs below provide some of the rear number plate frame measurements as a guide. The new number plate that will fit into the frame and will need to be slightly smaller in order to accommodate the surrounding rubber gasket that will hold it in place against the frame.
The new aluminium number plate frame similar to that shown in the photograph above of the same section of the rear of CRG106.
Lower frame width measurement: approximately 600mm (outside); 570mm (inside).
Upper frame width measurement: approximately 585mm (outside); 555mm (inside).
Higher frame width measurement: approximately 570mm (outside); 545mm (inside).
Right frame depth measurement: approximately 170mm (outside); 145mm (inside).
Left frame depth measurement: approximately 170mm (outside); 145mm (inside).
A close up of the left side section of the rear number plate frame.
A close up of the right side section of the rear number plate frame.
We would also like to know more about the rear damage we have found on the vehicle having removed the panels. If anyone has any information then please do get in touch.
Thank you.
Please e-mail post@crosville.net if you have any details of the availability of such parts or have contact details of anyone that might be able to help.
You can also send a message through the website by clicking HERE.
Thank you.