Rear Bumper ponderings

[Lugboot]

Hey, so, I'm bored and stuff, and I was thinking about bumpers. And about what I would like in a rear bumper. I kinda like the idea of dual swingouts, one for a tire and one for jerry cans or a cooler. And I definitely need a hitch receiver. I'd like to get my spare out from under the truck and I'd like to not smack my hitch the next time I wheel. And I kinda like the 4x4 labs bumpers. I'd like the Slee ones, too, if there was a dual swingout version. Not sure yet if I *need* dual swingouts, though. But, the 4x4 labs can be bought in a kit for weld-it-yo-self people for cheaper. I figure I can learn the art from my dad and have him help me weld it up.

I'm not looking to drop cash on a rear bumper right now, trust me. But I am curious to know who else would be interested in a rear bumper if something along the lines of a group buy on 4x4 labs kits or some other rear bumper would be pursued at some point.

 

[Wayneraintree]

for the advertised prices at 4x4labs... you could buy a bender and steel, make it yourself (with your dad) and come out with the knowledge and tools and still be ahead... with all due respect to Luke of course

 

[Lugboot]

I didn't notice prices on kits, there, though. I think those prices are for the completed bumpers. I'd have to contact them to check on kit pricing.

But, yeah, you are right--the completed bumpers are definitely a chunk of change. I think I'd better come up with a few projects to practice on before tackling a rear bumper myself!

 

[Wayneraintree]

actually, bumpers are a good place to start IMHO... nothing wrong with welding, not being satisfied, grinding it down, welding again, etc.... that is the learning process or at least it was for me. I always suggest DIY methods for things not critical, like bumpers, etc... steering, suspension (other than bolt on), should be left to the professionals and experienced although watching and learning is the key even if ya farm out the work... it is the only way building up cruisers is affordable to most folks.. to DIY when ya can

 

[campoj2]

I have been looking at upgrading the rear bumper and it carries an $800 price tag, oh, and don't forget about the shipping.

I wish there was someone in PA that stocked or built something like the ARB or TJM bumpers.

 

[Lugboot]

Is that $800 for the 4x4 labs kit?

 

[zucruisers]

i could build you guys bumpers for a reasonable price...i cant build them out of all plate steel like the arb's and similar styles, because that requires a jig or some tools that i dont have(yet)...but i do have a nice tubing bender, and know how to use it...i only have a 1-1/2 and 1-1/4 die, im planning on getting a couple more, but right now the bumpers could be built out rectangular or square tube, 1-1/2" hrew or dom round tube, include hitches, tow points, swing out carriers, etc...i would either need a rig to work off for a couple days, or some very exact measurements to work from...ask jeff im very good at fab work and will probably be doing some tube work on his rigs soon enough;p...let me know if anyones interested, as of right now im unemployed(just finished school and didnt get a job yet) and have the time to do a few projects

 

[Wayneraintree]

I would recommend John to fab tube for any application on the nicest of rigs... he is no slouch!

 

[ehsankiani]

Something like this one?
More pics on the buildup at
https://forum.ih8mud.com/showthread.php?t=170709&highlight=bumper

Ehsan

 

[Lugboot]

Nice fab work! Maybe, but for an 80. Still pondering. Pondering's free.

 

[campoj2]

If you want dual swing outs then a Kaymar is in your future, I have looked at quite a few rear bumpers and I think in the end I will purchase the Kaymar. It has the swing outs, it's beefy and has a nice clean look. Like everything else, it gonna cost you some coin.