jon-d

Hi guys - while on the Rubicon this last summer I bashed in my passenger fender so after replacing it I thought it might be a good idea to add a bumper to help protect it for the next adventure. My process was to use cardboard as a template and cut the angles as close to the same as possible. I used 1.5x2 square tubing, the same that was used on the rear quarter pannel project so that the jeep looks somewhat uniform. I welded it to my winch plate. Later on I might add a lower tube. If anyone has a suggestions to improve it please feel free to post. I still need to finish welding it and paint it flat black along with the metal behind it.

Martlor13

Are the ends tied in somehow? Just me, but it looks like if you hit a corner, that small tubing is bending right into the jeep causing the same damage as the first pic......but it does look good man. Angles look clean.

firebane

Yah bumper looks to have no real support and the winch plate doesn't seem to have any support underneath.

jon-d

You guys are right there should be some support on the ends tied back into the frame somehow. I just was not sure how to go about doing it without having to cut into the inner fender well, which may introduce more problems. Any sugestions or photos on how to go about it?

RockinRonnie

Either way going to be way better then the stock plastic end caps!

Martlor13

yeah how is the winch tied in? Is it just those 8 bolts up front?

jon-d

yes, they are bolted to a set of tabs that are then bolted to the frame.

firebane

If there is no gussets or support under where the winch is mounted... no way i would trust it.

PCO6

You can't beat a good CAD system. I use cardboard all the time.

jon-d

The original intention is to help protect the front fender from future damage, not prevent it from being damaged completely. It would be nice if I could consider the tubing strong enough to protect the body in a flop, but I am a realist and I don't expect it to perform to those expectations. If preventing body damage was the objective I would install a full exterior cage.

My goal in posting these projects are to generate ideas for others when personalizing their own jeeps and to also solicit ideas or improvements on what has already been done. I know this tubing is not the gold standard in front bumpers because if it was then some company would be making and selling them. But if you have suggestions on improving whats there I would like to hear or better yet see your suggestions. I am not apposed to modifying what I have or offended if someone posts a good recommendation.