3rd Gen 4Runner rear bumper options?

[4RunAmok]

I'm looking to rid myself of the bumber on my 4runner and replace it with something better.

Sometime back I saw a bumper that actually used the stock bumper plastic moulding. It looked great! But can't find it on any of the fab sites.

I do not want a tire carrier, I don't want to spend up in the armorology range for a simple rear bumper. I'm even considering leaving my bumper on, but cutting into it and poking the hitch receiver out of it via a modified bracket for the tow package, this alone should get me the clearance I'm looking for.

So what options are out there?

 

[SOAZ]

I noticed this set-up. Courtesy ot ultimateyota.com.
I may try and copy the idea and make my own changes.

 

[bigreen505]

Irbis and Armorology make bumpers.

Are you familiar with Darren Kilgore's 4Runner? It has a Rock Ware rear bumper.

 

[4RunAmok]

I had not seen Darren's bumper, thats great!

If they make it without the tire carrier, we're set!

 

[bigreen505]

PM Ric and Neliconcept. I think they are both running either Rock Ware or Armorology bumpers that are similar to Darren's, but without the tire rack.

 

[BruceTS]

Here's a few that I built

 

[Bighead]

PM Ric and Neliconcept. I think they are both running either Rock Ware or Armorology bumpers that are similar to Darren's, but without the tire rack.

Ric is running an Armorology bumper...not sure about Blake. The common link between the Rockware and Armorology is that they need you to leave the vehicle with them during the build.

I used to run the twin to Darren's Rockware bumper. Both were built at the same time using Darren's 2002 4Runner as the template since I was stationed in NC at the time. His turned out great but mine had several fit issues demonstrating that there were some differences between his '02 and my '01. There is something to be said for having the bumper built on your vehicle.

 

[4RunAmok]

Interesting points, Bighead, something I've not put much thought into.

Bruce, something told me that while I was writing my post about the bumpers that use the plastic piece from the stock bumper that it might be yours, but then I didn't put any effort into searching out your photos either.

You and I might have to hook up for bumper talk.

I'm probably going to go with a Shrockworks front bumper, but don't know what to do with the rear.

I may be interested in leaving the stock bumper and poking the hitch receiver through via mounting the tow member with custom brackets.

 

[bigwapitijohnny]

Here are mine...

I got both front and rear bumpers from Armorology. I know that this is out of your budget, but after looking at my options (BruceTS's custom build here locally) it was NOT much more expensive.

REAR:

Hope this helps...

Regards,

BWJ

 

[BruceTS]

As stated by most builders, the bumper needs to be fitted to each vehicle, but I did manage to build a jig to get most of the work done before the 4Runner shows up at my house for fitting. When I get spare time I build a few, then go down my list to see who wants one.

I put together a web page for those who want to build their own and when I get a chance I'll update it with more details. I'd rather see more people build their own bumpers, but don't mind if mine gets copied, I'm really trying not to make this a business, I'd rather be out wheelin with my free time.

The one thing I don't see done by others, is not allowing enough space between the bumper and the body. The factory bumper is bolted to the body, where aftermarket ones are attached to the frame. Because of this, the bumper can deflect more than 1" easily and greater if your running a body lift. I have a 1" gap between the bumper and body, but use rubber weather stripping to hide it, it also acts to dampen the impact between the two.


Here's a thread when Charles got hit from behind......
http://www.ultimateyota.com/index.php?option=com_smf&Itemid=26&topic=3821.0

 

[adrenaline503]

What kind of reverse lights are those? They look like 2.5' round, which is exactly what I am looking for.

 

[4RunAmok]

They look like projectors!

 

[4RunAmok]

Re Charles' 4Runner: That's both good and sucks at the same time.

Nice work, Bruce.

If you don't want to do a bumper for me, you think you could make a custom bracket for the tow crossmember to pack it up behind the bumper?

 

[Green96D1]

there are some awesome bumpers in this thread:wavey: :victory:

 

[bigwapitijohnny]

Adrenaline503,

These are Optilux work lights. 37.5W halogen bulbs in a free form reflector. These things also have 10 degree 'wedge' washers so you can angle them down toward the ground. I got them at rallylights. Here is the link.

http://www.rallylights.com/Optilux/optilux_built-in_work_lamp.asp

Regards,

BWJ