- Thread starter
- #21
I actually prefer NOT to break stuff.
Bumper Design (12 Viewers)
- Thread starter marcfj60
- Start date
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I agree with the others.
1. Recessed tow reciever
2. Cut the frame. I did it with my 4x4 Labs. Way stronger that the factory member. Better clearance with less lift.
3. Try to angle the bumper to match the departure angle.
4. Side wings are good.
G
1. Recessed tow reciever
2. Cut the frame. I did it with my 4x4 Labs. Way stronger that the factory member. Better clearance with less lift.
3. Try to angle the bumper to match the departure angle.
4. Side wings are good.
G
alia176
SILVER Star
if you're not wheeling, then no need to worry about the departure angle.
seriously, if the slider project intimidates you, the bumper project will give you nightmares.
- Thread starter
- #26
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.
- Thread starter
- #27
Thanks for the encouragement. I'm already getting grief for the time I 'wasted' last weekend measuring and buying steel. I don't even want to think about the trouble I'll get into for the time spent welding the bumper.
- Thread starter
- #28
I'm good to go there. The bottom of the tube is already at 0 degrees to the ground.
Definitely do the bumper first and don't listen to anyone without a 60 that says to do otherwise. Sounds like you already have a drawtight-type hitch which will give some protection, but you'll still end up ripping the bumper ends off (read that David O'Niell) when doing anything a little more difficult. I went without sliders for about 5 years before I felt the need. The reason is that you can often choose a line to avoid the rockers, but your butt will always drag readily with even minimal departure drop.
- Thread starter
- #30
They just don't understand how much you cringe when you think the next rock my bumper hangs up on will be the one that rips it off.
Actually, I don't have any type of hitch. I have no ability to tow anything. I have to borrow someone's truck just so I can rent/borrow a utility trailer. I just want a beefy, utilitarian bumper that I can tow stuff with and not be worried every time that giant overhanging rear end drags on even the smallest departure drop.
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.
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.
Labs Photo Gallery :: 80 series rear bumper kit instructions
This is my secret Cruiser p*rn link.
If I had the skill, I would build a bumper exactly like Luke builds them. Awesome.
-Mike-
-Mike-
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-
- Thread starter
- #36
Take 3 - Recessed receiver
I recessed the receiver. This will require some cutting of the face of the OEM crossmember but not removal.
I recessed the receiver. This will require some cutting of the face of the OEM crossmember but not removal.
- Thread starter
- #37
A couple more
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...
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...
- Thread starter
- #39
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
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.