Since my lower front bumper valence was damaged when I got my 4Runner, I decided to remove it and make a custom one that included a 2" receiver. I believe the metal upper bumper looks fine from the side without the lower valence, so my build will just be in the center section up front. This will provide extra tire clearance and greater inclination angle.

The receiver bracket mounts to the frame where the bumper push rings normally bolt to and 6 other pre-existing threaded holes and 2 non-threaded holes in the frame. Yes a total of 10 mounting locations. This bracket is made from 1/4" steel and has a 2" receiver hitch and reinforcement gussets with link holes. More than enough for forward boat launches, towing or a wench cradle. Comes with black powder coat finish. Trimming a 1/4" off the top of the skip plate in the center and a notch for the receiver is required for the receiver bracket to clear.

The valance mounts to the bumper where the old plastic one originally mounted. Drilled holes for greater cooling and looks. This new valance stays in the center of the upper bumper and does not wrap around the sides. This provides more approach angle as well as more tire clearance. Valance is made from 1/8" steel and is black powder coated.











With the skid plate in place.


For more info and pics see jamesdeancreations.com

Thats clean looking and I especially like the valance.

i dig it.

That looks really clean... nice job

Looks very cool and I bet it would look and work better with a tube bumper wrapped around that reciver. The valance does look good but just wonder how it would look with tube instead.

Looks good just be aware that your coolant temps will likey go up by blocking off the lower part of the radiator. My winch bumper added 10 degrees to my temps. There is a reason the factory valance has vent slots, you may want to add them into your design.

looks to me like he thought of the cooling situation, but I suspect he doesn't have a hole saw set and hence, used the biggest(aprox. 3/4" it looks like) drill bit he had.

Looks awesome to me, but yea, i think you need some bigger holes for air. Tremendous idea!

The holes are 1" in diameter. I drove with the valance on during the whole summer in Tucson AZ in bare metal before I had it powder coated, with no effect on my temp. However when I start making them to sell they are going to be cut out with a plasma router and will have slots, not holes. I was just trying to get a feel for how people liked the idea and design.

Hey, Katie and I are from Tucson too !

Just checked out your website, looks great! I am sure you will get a lot of business there.

You didn't by a slim chance used to work as a waiter at 5andDiner by the Tucson Mall, did ya? very slim chance, but just curious.

No never been a waiter. But I've eaten there though.

I think it would be really cool for the pick ups and older runners too.

I just posted a pic with the skid place back in place.