2008 GMC Sierra 1500 4x4 Front Bumper Advice Needed

[Tazman]

I have owned my truck since new. Loaded with all the goodies, it is a comfortable low mileage truck. I have found the need to look at options for a front bumper. It seems like no one except Fab Fours makes a replacement for this truck.

http://fabfours.com/product/black-steel-elite-front-bumper-7/

This may be what I choose but it would sure be nice to compare it with something. Can anyone offer experience or opinion. I'm going to have a shop do the work so would like any pros chime in.

My Need:

I usually load my truck with my camping stuff and tow my 1986 CJ behind. The Jeep has 30k miles, e lockers, and BF Goodrich M/T. This setup has worked great and has gone on many an adventure. The truck is great, has plenty of power, good mileage, and very dependable. Plus it has been paid off for years.

I recently purchased a Kimberley Kruiser Trailer and will not be able to tow the Jeep. Therefore I have to either upgrade the truck a bit to get me off roading when out of camp or by a new rig. I really don't want the expense especially after pricing new trucks. Plus I just bought a trailer and that only worked if I kept the truck. I have Bilstine shocks, BFG A/Ts, standard locker and everything stock on the truck. The truck is capable but certainly not what I'm use to.

The front bumper is going to get torn off trip one if I don't do something. The approach angle is terrible, and everything is plastic. I can't believe that there is not a lot of after market stuff available.

 

[kylevd23]

The upside down picture makes things a bit dizzying :Wow1: lol, I have a sierra as well, and after research, the fab fours was the best option I saw as well. I like the clearance for approach angle, as well as the options for d shackles, winch, and receiver hitch.

I was opting for ranch hand, but its way much more, and the weight is almost double. Other than that, I think we are short on options unless custom.

 

[Tazman]

Thanks. Funny thing, the picture looks right side up. FKN Apple products.

 

[1stDeuce]

You'd think ARB would have a bumper for these trucks by now, but I guess not... They unfortunately make one of the better (lightest) bumpers out there IMO, but that doesn't help you.

I can't tell from your tiny upside-down picture , but if you haven't already pulled it, the lower air dam comes right off the factory bumper on those trucks. Easy to remove it before you leave home for a trip, and put back on for mileage when you return. You just pry the center out of the plastic rivits, and remove them and it kinda falls on the ground. The owner's manual has details if you still have it. (The bottom ~2.5" tall part that shows clearly in this pic is what I'm talking about, VERY easy to remove, and greatly improves clearance...)

If that's gone, it seems that if you're in terrain where the bumper is an issue, you're not far from having breakover issues too. An inch or two of lift will do wonders for clearance overall. My truck was always dragging the center crossmember, which hangs low on the 2500's until I cranked the front up an inch or so. You wouldn't think it would make that much of a difference, but it sure seemed to.

Good luck with the bumper hunt!!
Chris

 

[Tazman]

I did remove the air dam and it did make a difference. I think that I am just going to have to accept the limitations of the rig and not drive it like my Jeep. I guess I'll just hike more.

Thanks for your reply.

 

[OffGridCamper]

Have a look...

http://roadarmor.com/products/bumpers/2008-2013/gmc/1500

Sent From The Automotive Proof S5

 

[kylevd23]

Yea unfortunately ARB doesn't do our year models or else I'd buy one just as well. I've watched their manufacturing video, and when you talk about quality for your money, you're definitely getting the best. I'm guessing there just isn't a market for our model trucks.

 

[Tazman]

It probably has something to do with safety crap. I noticed that most talk about airbag compatible. Who knows. I asked a local Fab Four dealer for a quote. Haven't heard anything yet. I would really like to see one or get some real positive feedback from others. List is 1000. My son is a welder and we could whip something together but I would rather go the easy rout on this.

 

[chilliwak]

Looks like a couple of good options for bumpers listed by the previous posters. I would think they would look good on your rig...:ylsmoke:

 

[Mako1114]

When it comes to domestic trucks, ARB tends to offer bumpers in the 3/4 ton range rather than 1/2 ton which is kind of odd as ARB offers a Tundra and Titan option. I have an ARB bumper/ warm M12000 combo on my Titan and I cannot say enough good things about it. I would think there is a US market for 1/2 ton domestic trucks such as 1500 and F-150 but maybe not.

Cheers

 

[1stDeuce]

In the near term, if the bumper does prove an issue, and you plan to replace it anyway, you can always trim the lower edge with a sawzall. Take 2-3" off and it would look fine, and cost nothing. That's what the BLM does to the Tahoe's they use around here. Well, that and they add a 1-2" lift.
Probably more realistic to understand that without a LOT of lift, this truck is not going to do what your Jeep did, no matter what bumper you put on it...
Good luck!

 

[Tazman]

I thought about the sawzall approach but this is my primary ride and it is in mint condition. The Fab Four is a lower priced unit and a bit lighter. I don't plan on heavy duty usage, just need a better approach angle. I saw the 2016s and they are even worst. I did see the new GMC off road model. It is basically what I have now, just with a different bumper. A new bumper is a much better deal than a new truck.

Thanks for all the input.