Optimus

I've purchased a TJM 17 and a Prozap winch bumper for two of my vehicles. These styles do not have the "headlight hoops" up above like the TJM 13 or ARB. My plan is to build the tubes and center bumper thumper on them. Actually, the Prozap has the center bumper thumper part with a 3" tube in the middle top and flat stock rising up. All I need is to fashion the hoops and weld them on. The TJM 17 will require I fashion the bumper thumper part and hoops.

Also, where are people getting their d-rings/shackles used to mount on bumpers? Northern Hydraulic here in town carries them, but there's no tonnage strength given for them and I don't want something that will snap off the bumper like a rocket. Basically what I'm talking about is the type Corey has on his ARB (which he'll probably read this post and reply .

I've just discovered how easy and cheap stick welding is, and I will start making my own stuff. I took a welding class in high school, but that was a long time ago and I forgot much of it. I thought it was going to cost a lot more.

I also realized today that if I was going to weld on occasion, perhaps I could bend some tube and make my own bumpers and stuff (not for sale, just for me). I found cheap "pipe" benders, but it appears those won't work. Anyone bending tubing on their own and know of an "entry level" hydrualic no frills bender?

Corey

iTrader: (1)

Hi Shawn, that's cool to hear you are going to fab some stuff.

I saw these D ring shackles first in one of my mags.
They are stainless steel, and shaped a little different.
I like them a lot, and best of all, no paint, and they can't rust.
http://www.offroadonly.com/

The type I have can be found at Central 4WD, and they are made by Warn, or a few other companies.
http://www.central4wd.com/store/itemdetail.asp?ID=3259

Here's a good supply place.
http://www.recoverygear.com/DEFAULT1.HTM
They also have the type you can bolt on, but they are only good for 6,600 lb of working force.



They also have the type I use right now.



U. S. Made
Galvanized
A must for securely attaching various winching components
6.5 tons Working Load Limit
Design Factor / Ultimate Strength = 5 times Working Load Limit
Ultimate Strength = 65,000 lbs.
Exceed strength requirements for
Federal Spec. RR-C-271D

And for the weld on type like Steve S uses for this rear jobby, I use to have a link to them, but I can't find it now.
http://fastq.com/~sschaefer/rear_001.jpg

If you want a tube bender, you can email the guy who made my sliderz.
He has a few around his shop, and knows his stuff.
www.badlandbumpers.com

Good luck on the custom stuff.