I'm thinking of getting a bull bar for my 94 SR5 truck. I like the TJM T15 aluminum, but I'm not sure if the steel would be better. I know aluminum will be lighter, look a little prettier and the steel will be heavier and a little stronger. I'm also thinking about the ARB in a similar style. What do you guys think? I also want to add a winch.

 

i think you should search the forum. this is a topic that i would say is in the top 5 most asked questions.

also, i'd find some guys in your local area and check out the various bull bars in person before you decide

bob

 

id say the arb if it was me. where in mass are you?

 

I can't give a comparision opinion but I have the TJM on my truck and it is really solid, made well, and the brakets are even pretty good.

 

I'd go with whichever one has most ground clearance.

 

I've done a search, not that much info on the aluminum TJM. I must say that from the search it appears the one piece ARB design might be stronger though.

 

ARB. See my sig for pics on an 89 Truck

 

Easy trail run Sept 11th with NE4ROC in Ashburnham, MA, you should come!
Well if you don't plan to put on upgraded front suspension I would suggest you buy the lightest one you can find. I know the TJM T 17 isn't as heavy as the ARB and the T 15. As far as strength and solidity they are about the same. The only benefit of the ARB is that it has shackle mounts on it.

 

yes, i dont know of a single person who has purchased the aluminum TJM. my guess is $$$.

i cannot recall anyone saying that the ARB is stronger because it is one piece, but im sure there's some truth/validity to it. but iirc, there are some fitment issues whereas the TJms are pretty much bolt on. though some TJM users have modified the front hangers w/ a little cutting and grinding. see midiwall's website

bob

 

Bob I think there was discussion on the boards at some point on the ARBs being stronger for winching/recovery because of the one peice design...too lazy to dig it up but its out there...but then again most people love their TJMs. But I think there are some people that have damaged their TJMs during heavy recovery.