ARB (Modification)

[akarilo]

On a recent wheeling trip with some fellow LXers, I found out that the bottom of the ARB bends rather easily when it scrapes a rock. Furthermore, I also learned that a stock LX bumper has a better approach angle than the arb (same size tires and lift, same obstacle). So I decided to do a little cutting.

Even trimmed the "wings" a bit. Kinda resembles the 60 series ARB a little.

 

[Brentbba]

You going to relocate that ultra exposed AC Dryer too?

 

[Tools R Us]

Nice! I thing the same but, plating the whole thing back.

 

[akarilo]

You going to relocate that ultra exposed AC Dryer too?

As if it had any protection before

 

[motorsargeT]

Nice. I did almost the same thing, but followed the lower bend all the way to the end and trimmed the outer wings also. I then welded in a bunch of reinforcement on the backside of the outer portions. I also cut some 3/8 inch plate to reinforce the standard ARB "recovery" points, which I left.

 

[chappysfj40]

do you have a before and after pic to share?

 

[motorsargeT]

No, but I can take some after shots if you want.

 

[chappysfj40]

no you do need to. i was just liking the way it looked.. thanks for the offer though

 

[stonemasoncruiser]

That's a really good idea. Hope you don't mind copy cats.

 

[pinoytoys]

Nice!!!

 

[julstirn]

Kinda looks like the TJM bumper but does free up a bunch clearance wise! Maybe this will be the new slee with upper protection!

 

[tourboy]

The bullbars made in Oz are designed like that because we hit things like kangaroos often when we are touring or doing any country miles. It deflects the animal down and protects the radiator steering arms and transmission cooler pipes.

 

[darnold87]

That looks great! If I was running an ARB bumper, I'd totally do that! Nice customization!

 

[harper28]

Maybe you can keep up with us now!!!

 

[akarilo]

Maybe you can keep up with us now!!!

OMG! When you gonna update your avatar

 

[ayrtime]

Still not sure he can. lol

 

[greentruck]

The bullbars made in Oz are designed like that because we hit things like kangaroos often when we are touring or doing any country miles. It deflects the animal down and protects the radiator steering arms and transmission cooler pipes.

Good point, Dave. Sometimes it's not just the offroad protection that makes this important, but also what may be encountered on the road.

I really like the look of the modded bumper. But our build is focused more on expedition use. The lower lip also helps some with getting smoother airflow, which helps a little bit with gas mileage. For now it won't be something I'd consider. If I manage to mangle it enough that it's just ugly, it is good to know that there is an option like this, though.

 

[harper28]

OMG! When you gonna update your avatar

Is that better?