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Beefed up stock bumper

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Old 02-08-2012, 12:45 AM
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Default Beefed up stock bumper

This is my first real by my self fab project. I wanted to build a bumper but, not wanting to cut my 1/4 panels because of my rusty flex flares i had to figure out a way to use the stock end caps and I Want it to look clean. So I got some 1.5x3" square tubing and started. Not that hard to get the first part started except the holes for the bracket was a pain. I tacked up everything and got it solid at school with a better welder ( I wouldn't trust a 110 welder for a critical tow point). I then took the end caps off my bumper to slip it on easily and get everything where I want it. I then cut the stock bumper to clear the high clearance hitch. It's tacked on as of now. I am going to school and welding it on solid there. I'm also adding gussets to the side of it. Then I will have to mount the bumper on the tube along with the brackets that will come out to the tire rack. Then I can mount my tire rack I've made already on.
I'm adding bearing to the tire rack along with a hook type latch to secure it. I then need to make the 3rd brake light housing that I'm putting over the tire on along with a license plate bracket and light.
For all of you who are thinking what about a frame tie in, well that comes next. After the bumper is all done I'm going to make plates with the bolt welded to it for a nut strip alternative. Then a piece of flat strap that goes to the bumper.
Attached Thumbnails Beefed up stock bumper-image-623512283.jpg   Beefed up stock bumper-image-1189071027.jpg   Beefed up stock bumper-image-3424167932.jpg   Beefed up stock bumper-image-2001193837.jpg   Beefed up stock bumper-image-3582244545.jpg  

Beefed up stock bumper-image-3444301319.jpg   Beefed up stock bumper-image-3989200595.jpg   Beefed up stock bumper-image-2887436522.jpg  
Old 02-08-2012, 06:45 PM
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Didn't really get a ton done today. I welded and gusseted the hitch up in school but after I was done it was raining/snowing so I can't do any welding or cutting in it.
Old 02-08-2012, 09:59 PM
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looks like a good start, ive been debating going this way for my rear, kinda like the backbone bumpers, i guess i decide when i finally FUBAR my rear bumper kinda like i did with my front
Old 02-08-2012, 10:12 PM
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I'm liking how clean it looks and it's going to be a little lighter than a full bumper.
Old 02-10-2012, 08:23 PM
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Beefed up stock bumper-image-1413712466.jpg

Got my tabs welded on and also made a bearing type thing for the tire carrier to swing on. I used 2 bearings from the wheels off the generator we have.
Attached Thumbnails Beefed up stock bumper-image-1335443149.jpg  
Old 02-16-2012, 05:41 PM
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Well I'm mostly done. I just need to paint and add end caps.
Attached Thumbnails Beefed up stock bumper-image-371418224.jpg   Beefed up stock bumper-image-1055840362.jpg  
Old 02-17-2012, 10:08 AM
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nice skills. Looks like she came out good. Keep it up
Old 02-17-2012, 11:03 AM
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Thanks. I've decided it needs one more support to keep it From wiggling around a little. It's going to go to the swing to the bracket on the bottom.
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