My first project - front hitch in stock bumper

[pugsly]

Day 3.

I'm not real fast at this.

Brackets are done. Making templates wasn't as straight forward as I expected. Had to re-drill a few holes - some where out by 10mm or more



Also, I put a business case to the treasurer and managed to score one of these.



With a few projects in mind (rock sliders, rear bar, roof cage) I think it will get some good use - and it'll help me get these cuts square.

Next steps - get the high tensile bolts (did anyone replace the steering box bolts?) and get the tow bar welded into the brackets.

I think (hope) the hardest part is now over!

[pugsly]

OK, between pouring rain and hail, I managed to get the main event done. I've still got the fiddly bits underneath to put back on, but the hitch and bumper is done - somewhat rough for now, but done!

Here's how it looks.

This was before a welded the brackets on to refit the bumper. I wanted to try and balance how far the bumper stuck out, and how far the receiver stuck out of the bumper.


This is the finished product with the number plate on. It doesn't look quite square in the photo, and I must admit, I didn't check it from afar. Still, nothing a BFH won't fix.


This is the gap behind the number plate. It's big enough to get the pin in and out, but just small enough to hide behind the number plate.


View from above again


and a side view to give an idea of how far it sticks out.

[pugsly]

Some better photos - not at night, not raining, and not half way in the garage.

I've trimmed the flares, and did a little tidy up. I need to get some of the black rubber stuff to put around the edge of the hole in the bumper to stop cuts.





Total cost for materials about $150
I bought some tools to make life easier, which of course will be reused $200

Cost difference between an ARB winch bar and this - $1000

Thank you to everyone for their suggestions and advice. It's a great community here.

[Gojeep]

Glad you are happy with the results.
Have you put a power plug at the back too as you dont always want to pull forward and that is the great advantage of your setup?

[pugsly]

Yup, wiring comes next. My father in law is an industrial sparky, so is getting me some decent cable to carry around 450A to the back of the Jeep happily, and some plugs to go along with it.

I'll put sockets in the front and rear bumpers with an isolator switch and 500A fuse under the bonnet.

[Gojeep]

Sounds like a perfect setup you will have.