driving with rear crossmember removed (1 Viewer)

[bowtoy70]

I was going to start building a rear bumper for my 80. I was going to remove the rear crossmember like you do for the 4x4labs setup. My question is...can I still drive my 80 after I remove the rear crossmember while I build my bumper? I dont know if that crossmember is a structural crossmember or if it is just there to act like a bumper. Thanks

 

[JustDeserts]

I drove mine without that crossmember for a few days during my bumper installation. I just drove to work and back, on good paved roads. I had no weird noises or creaking or anything like that. I noticed no adverse effects at all.

 

[kidglove13]

Just remember that the rear cross member is a structural part of the frame.

 

[Rwhat]

Its structural if you get hit with it removed. Your frame will be hosed. Cut it off and bolt on the tow hitch minus the bolt on each side for protection Its fairly simple.

I'm in the same situation, i got parts to finish my labs bumper, but no time lately to finish it. When i have to remove mine temporarily i will install the hitch for protection.

 

[kidglove13]

tow hitch is a good idea.

 

[bowtoy70]

thanks for all the info...tow hitch is a good idea

 

[Rwhat]

I think i got the idea from "Tools"

 

[Tools R Us]

Have done the hitch thing, works well. The only big deal about driving without the cross member, would be if it got hit, the hitch would help.

 

[Lka1988]

You'll be fine. One thing I regret doing on mine is not bolting it in place (drilling new holes in the receiver) before welding it up. That would've helped a lot... But it's done and greatly improved my departure angle.