3rd Gen BullBar Install w/ Pics

[bigacuralvr]

Ok guys, so it was time to put my BullBar on. Its a Westin Ultimate Bull Bar for the 96-02 Tacomas. I got it figuring there would be no difference, but I was wrong. The install brackets were about 2-3" too short. So, here is what I did to get it to fit. It looks ghetto, but I needed to get it to fit, and measure it, so that Westinm could make a prototype for a possible new fit kit (It would fit 96-02 4Runners too!!) So, here is what I did.

The actual brackets install where your tow hooks are. I used mine still, but they aren't there for anything more than a spacer. I put the bracket ontop of the tow hook, then bolted it up to the frame....

After those weher in, I took the 4.5" x 1/2" bolts, and put them through the holes, and through the steel pipe that I bought from Home Depot in the pipe section. It comes 2" around by 3" long. It fits perfectly!!

Now, tighten the bracket to bull bar bolts, readjust the bracket to frame bolts, and tighten those up too. And, you're done.

Now, it is solid as ever, I can put my 200lbs on it, and it doesn't move a bit. I also wired up a set of PIAA 510's, which look pretty good, IMO....(Thats my Escort 8500 hardwired in...custom huh?)

Well, here is the finished product:

I am in the process of working with Westin to get a BullBar made specifically for our 3rd gens. They look sweet, and work perfectly with our bumper (Height and contour)...so we'll see how that goes. Feel free to PM me with any questions....
Brett

 

[Pirate VI]

that looks great, looks like it was meant for the 3rd gen 4runners

 

[dave5339]

Nice job on that Bullbar!

Did Westin give you any time frame on when they expect have the mounts for a 3rd Gen 4Runner?

I'll have to keep my eyes peeled for a reasonably priced Taco Bullbar and light set up now.

Semper Fi

 

[THUNDR CLOUD]

:bigok:

That looks awsome. Congrat's on the install. It looks like it belongs there. I'd be in for one of those myself if I had not just gone another direction for the front end of mine. Nice job!

 

[Serge]

Bigacuralvr,

You encouragrd me to do the same on my 3rd Generation 4runner. I simply followed you instructions, step by step.
This bullbar fits car perfectly. Guys, if someone decides to do the same, I'll be more than glad to answer your questions on installation. And for those, who always want pics, I'll attach few.

 

[Serge]

And after installation

 

[Jason B]

I know this is older, but I've had more than few ask about this item and I don't think many know about it, so here:

Burtman Industries Bull Bar 99-02 4Runner

Burtman Industries Bull Bar 96-98 4Runner

 

[Scramble]

Bigacuralvr,

You encouragrd me to do the same on my 3rd Generation 4runner. I simply followed you instructions, step by step.
This bullbar fits car perfectly. Guys, if someone decides to do the same, I'll be more than glad to answer your questions on installation. And for those, who always want pics, I'll attach few.

Bump for a rare color. :bluejump:

 

[Scramble]

Ok guys, so it was time to put my BullBar on. Its a Westin Ultimate Bull Bar for the 96-02 Tacomas. I got it figuring there would be no difference, but I was wrong. The install brackets were about 2-3" too short. So, here is what I did to get it to fit. It looks ghetto, but I needed to get it to fit, and measure it, so that Westinm could make a prototype for a possible new fit kit (It would fit 96-02 4Runners too!!) So, here is what I did.



Well, here is the finished product:

I am in the process of working with Westin to get a BullBar made specifically for our 3rd gens. They look sweet, and work perfectly with our bumper (Height and contour)...so we'll see how that goes. Feel free to PM me with any questions....
Brett

These little PIAA 510's look great & almost stock.