Bumper Design

[SteveLCetc]

Originally Posted by marcfj60

I looked at 4X4 Lab's website but their photos and descriptions didn't help me understand exactly how they did it. I have an idea but I'd like to see pictures of the actual layout.

I was thinking if I recess the receiver such that it's flush to the face and protrudes out the back a few inches, will it even need any gussets on the back side? The gussets are to stiffen the receiver that is protruding from the face of the bumper where the loads would be the highest. I don't see how the loads on the back of the receiver tube are very high.

True, they're not *as* high since you're pivoting at the face, but look at it this way - it will not be the weak link and won't suffer from metal fatigue.

[Ruadhrigh]

here are some good 4X4 Labs bumper pics.

Labs Photo Gallery :: 80 series rear bumper kit instructions

This is my secret Cruiser p*rn link.

[Beowulf]

If I had the skill, I would build a bumper exactly like Luke builds them. Awesome.




-Mike-

[Ruadhrigh]

Originally Posted by Beowulf

If I had the skill, I would build a bumper exactly like Luke builds them. Awesome.
-Mike-

You could Mike. Those are pics of the DIY kit he sells.

[Beowulf]

Originally Posted by Ruadhrigh

You could Mike. Those are pics of the DIY kit he sells.

My fabrication and welding DIY skills are limited to signing a check. Nice kit though.

-Mike-

[marcfj60]

I recessed the receiver. This will require some cutting of the face of the OEM crossmember but not removal.

[marcfj60]

A couple more

[sirenmoses]

Wow, looks great. Put me on the list to buy the next one you make.

With the recessed receiver it looks like the safety chains will wrap up under the bumper, making them the lowest point on the rear. Only matters if you'll wheel with a trailer.

It's enough hassle for me to sink the hitch pin when it's outboard of the bumper, especially when the receiver is covered in mud...

[marcfj60]

Originally Posted by sirenmoses

With the recessed receiver it looks like the safety chains will wrap up under the bumper, making them the lowest point on the rear. Only matters if you'll wheel with a trailer.

yes, they will wrap under the bumper. I don't expect to be wheeling while pulling a trailer though. They could also be run through the shackles. They'd still be low but then they wouldn't get pinched between the ground and bumper

Originally Posted by sirenmoses

It's enough hassle for me to sink the hitch pin when it's outboard of the bumper, especially when the receiver is covered in mud...

The second design where the receiver protrudes from the face of the bumper isn't much different than design #3 where it's recessed. And design # 2 doesn't require any modifications to the OEM frame. There are enough variables based on how you plan to use the truck for off-road and towing use that I don't think there is one perfect design.