targa88
Explorer
I wanted a tubular, swing-out rear bumper for my FJC. Part of it was to match the front tubular bumper - but more importantly a couple of issues needed to be addressed: a) relieve the weight of the tire from the door hinge; b) provide a carrier for water or jerry cans; c) remain as lightweight as possible.
Over the course of at the last 12 months, I had endeavoured to find a solution and a fabricator. A few had tried without success. Through the recommendation of a friend - I was referred to Steve Egan @ CBI Offroad in Idaho Falls, ID.
The project began. Initially a double tube bumper to attach to the frame with one swing-out arm. Due to the overall weight of the tire + 2 full jerry cans ) estimated in excess of 200lbs), it was decided to go for a double swing out. There were a few other pre-requisites: a) receiver hitch, b) D-ring attachments; c) re-insert the back up sensors (from the OEM bumper); d) rear quarter panel protection; e) high lift mount; f) auxiliary rear light mount.
Part of the challenge was I was in Calgary and Steve was in Idaho Falls. Fortunately, he was able to get access to another FJC. The tubular frame was more elaborate than I expected.
Followed by the side protection (quarter panels) - initially the notion was to simplify having to cut an fit the side panel fascia (which other designs required). So the wraparound tubes (3) were added and subsequent filled in with sheet metal.
Another part of the design requirement, was the ability to remove the swing-arms - when not needed (in town for example). The attach points were now higher up, relieving some of the stress on the spindle design, a couple of screws on each side and the swing arms could be removed without affecting the integrity of the bumper.
In relative terms, all the other components appeared to be relatively simple to include/fab.
That being said Steve's fabrication skills are in a class by themselves, meticulous, clean welds. As we discussed, when I took delivery - he exceeded my expectations. What had I expected. Ultimately, I had an idea in my head of what type of bumper I was looking for: lightweight, functional and modular. Once, it was installed - it was PERFECT.
Over the course of at the last 12 months, I had endeavoured to find a solution and a fabricator. A few had tried without success. Through the recommendation of a friend - I was referred to Steve Egan @ CBI Offroad in Idaho Falls, ID.
The project began. Initially a double tube bumper to attach to the frame with one swing-out arm. Due to the overall weight of the tire + 2 full jerry cans ) estimated in excess of 200lbs), it was decided to go for a double swing out. There were a few other pre-requisites: a) receiver hitch, b) D-ring attachments; c) re-insert the back up sensors (from the OEM bumper); d) rear quarter panel protection; e) high lift mount; f) auxiliary rear light mount.
Part of the challenge was I was in Calgary and Steve was in Idaho Falls. Fortunately, he was able to get access to another FJC. The tubular frame was more elaborate than I expected.
Followed by the side protection (quarter panels) - initially the notion was to simplify having to cut an fit the side panel fascia (which other designs required). So the wraparound tubes (3) were added and subsequent filled in with sheet metal.
Another part of the design requirement, was the ability to remove the swing-arms - when not needed (in town for example). The attach points were now higher up, relieving some of the stress on the spindle design, a couple of screws on each side and the swing arms could be removed without affecting the integrity of the bumper.
In relative terms, all the other components appeared to be relatively simple to include/fab.
That being said Steve's fabrication skills are in a class by themselves, meticulous, clean welds. As we discussed, when I took delivery - he exceeded my expectations. What had I expected. Ultimately, I had an idea in my head of what type of bumper I was looking for: lightweight, functional and modular. Once, it was installed - it was PERFECT.
