1st gen bumper build

[Brownfaux]

Building a new butt for my 88. Smittybilt ones from the PO were rusted beyond salvation.

1x1 1/8 inch wall square tuning. I saved the mounts from the smittybilt and am using those for this one. I plan to take it higher behind the wheels, and cover a little of it with either 1/8 or 3/16 sheet.

Questions comments, snide remarks, constructive criticism? This is my first bumper build. I've been welding for two years, self taught, several hours a weekend.

 

[KidVermicious]

Are we going for appearance or function? I'm skeptical that that square tube will survive an impact with the truck's weight behind it. Maybe if you plate it in front and back with something sturdy, but that seems like a lot of work.

I'm a novice when it comes to fab too, but when I get around to a rear bumper I'm going to start with a chunk of 2x5" .180 wall.

 

[Brownfaux]

Kinda both. There is still much to be done. There will be some bracing inside the frame you see, so it will look more substantial. I didn't want a monster of a bumper though, so it will be on the smaller side