96-98 Front end swap- Ebay parts..

[WeakSauz]

Long story short, as these trucks age, I'm having a heck of a time finding a 96-98 OEM used frontend to use for my project "get rid of fat lip".

Well.. I'm finding them, but not in respectable condition.

I ran across this "full" kit on eBay.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/200851611341?ViewItem=&item=200851611341


I am usually 100% against non-OEM parts. Does anyone have experience with this?

I'm trying to fill the gap between a part that looks as good as the rest of my truck and actually having OEM fitment. I know I can't have my cake and eat it too, but has anyone had any luck with these types of parts?

 

[T4R2014]

Yes. OEM is much better quality, but those parts will do the job.

 

[WeakSauz]

Just one more push to the top on this one--
Anyone running these ebay bumpers?

Just wish I could get the lowdown on the quality of them before dropping $250

Thanks!

 

[bizmo21]

Here's the exact same kit on ebay for $140.
https://www.ebay.com/p/Kit-Auto-Bod...-1996-1998/1279289765?iid=231770754571&chn=ps

Carparts offers something similar but without brackets and the bumper comes painted black, not primed. bumper + valance = ONLY $63. However with shipping and handling is comes to $108.
https://www.carparts.com/details/To...VBtNkCh13pQgIEAQYASABEgLbffD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

NOT TOO SHABBY!!!!!

 

[IBallEngineer]

Just one more push to the top on this one--
Anyone running these ebay bumpers?

Just wish I could get the lowdown on the quality of them before dropping $250

Thanks!

It is going to be crap, how bad is a variable. Your expectations are a huge factor too. Buying aftermarket sheet metal can be a decent alternative if you buy CAPA certified, and you have some skill. The back side of chrome will rust much quicker than OEM, and the fit of the plastic parts can really frustrate anyone. Brackets, to me at least, are the worst part. I generally will not use a/m brackets. Anything can be installed with enough work. Buying online ads to the risk, I buy from a wholesaler who will take things back if I feel they are useless, you should too.