So, the brackets finally broke on my "unique" front bumper, and i need to build a new one. I have a couple questions. I'm looking to build it so it looks good, not all ugly like a straight tube bumper, so maybe along the lines of arb or tjm. My qustion is, should i build a frame work out of small square tubing, and then cover it with like a 3/16 plate steel, or should i go with like 1/4 inch plate with no frame? This will hold a winch and have a loop up front. I've been inspired by Ric's new bumper, while it will be different, i'm using his as a starting point.

 

I'd use a 1/4" plate to mount up the (4) OEM holes for the OEM bumper brakcets and then build off that. Make the bumper tube with 1/4" plate in between tubes for a winch plate and bracing and go from there. Something like you'd find on POR...all over the place. Lots and lots of bumpers to choose from to copy...

 

well, my current bumper is 1/4 inch thick tube steel and was attached to the OEM brackets. The one upper OEM bracket is gone. Broke completely off, and i assume somewhere on the road. the other is bent really bad, because the first is broken off. It keeps coming loose. Some new brackets are going to have to be made, and then the bumper will be mounted to those. Thanks for the advice though. I'll do it with plate and skip the frame. Should be a bit lighter that way.

 

Also, what does POR stand for? Can't find a website.

 

www.pirate4x4.com Pirates Of the Rubicon

Keep us posted.

 

Yes sir. I've got a guy here in my apartment that next week i'll be buying a 12 pack for, and then he and i will hit cad and draw up the plans. I'll post em up when i get em. Should be a good time.

 

Concept Pics Done:



So, in top pic, the wierd thing is supposed to be a winch, i kind of suck at drawing cable...

Couple of questions for folks...First, what thinkness etc...should the stinger be made out of?...Second...This will be made from Plate steel, and therefore must be stitch welded so the metal doesn't warp completely out of shape...this leaves my seams open and looking kind of bad, so i'm wondering what i can fill those with...i've heard about JBWeld, but not sure if that is something that would work to fill (thinking along the lines of a wood filler) for a purely cosmetic look, but one that could be smoothed and painted over...

 

Stinger should be made out of 1.5" OD of 1.75" OD 0.120" wall tubing.

The plate steel can be stitch welded, let it cool, get it all tacked together, and then stitch some more, let it cool, stitch it some more until you get it all done, but move around and keep space between stitches to reduce the warping.

 

Okay, sounds good...i wasn't sure if that would work, but good to know.thanks

 

Another question that could totally screw up my plans...Can you cut 3/16 inch plate steel with a jigsaw with a good metal cutting blade?

 

Angle grinder w/ a cut off wheel or a sawzall.

 

Yes, and it's certainly easier to make a controlled cut than a sawzall in many cases. Assuming the jigsaw has variable speed control, otherwise you will burn up metal blades pretty quickly.

 

AxleIke, BudBuilt just put these winch plates on his website and thought you might want one for your bumper http://www.budbuilt.com/new/winch_plates.html

 

Thanks, i'm considerint that now, and may actually use it...It seems like a good price and would give me a great platform to work from...

 

That is cut and drilled 1/4" plate...nothing much more. If you are buying that to weld, then you got some skills at fabbing, so get some skills at finding materials for cheap. I guess if you don't have access that is a deal...but I got a piece of plate that thickness and about twice as big for $2 scrap. You just gotta look and call.

 

yeah, thats true, just thinking it was a good platform to start from...but yeah, i think i could do it cheaper...gotta see...be measureing tonight (hopefullly)...cad will commence shortly

 

My friend here in Miami you are our hope!!!! we have the welder, a 12000 LB winch and a '93 4runner only waiting to see how can we get any help to build a front bumper as yours, any blue print will be greatly appreciated.
thanks and good luck!!!
Ricardo M

 

Well Rmundarian, i got your email, and you are in luck...as soon as a i get this into cad, i'll send the drawings your way...it'll be a bit though, as its gonna take a bit of time to get it set up...however, i must tell you that this is completely home built, and there fore isn't guaranteed to do squat...i'm designing it to be tough enough to take any beating i can throw at it, but as for safety, it would probably screw up your airbag or whatever system if you've got one.

The brackets are still not good enough, other wise i'd send you a pic, but the ones i have now are almost guaranteed to fail, they need more work...

 

Don't worry my friend: no airbags, I doubt that even the rear ABS work in my truck!!!

Thanks a lot in advance and I will send at least some beers to your address!!
RM

 

did you guys ever get anything figured out here?? pictures?