Bull bar for 2014 4Runner Trail Edition

[Mark_W]

Can anyone suggest a high quality bull bar for a new 2014 4Runner Trail? There are many available online at a large range of prices. I prefer a matte black finish and a high quality product. And, I am considering mounting a winch on the bar. There is quite a bit of discussion on this forum about various winch models, but the bar would need to be designed to accept a winch. I am not keen on the more elaborate bars that include protection for the grill & headlights. Thanks.

 

[jrhaze]

Can anyone suggest a high quality bull bar for a new 2014 4Runner Trail? There are many available online at a large range of prices. I prefer a matte black finish and a high quality product. And, I am considering mounting a winch on the bar. There is quite a bit of discussion on this forum about various winch models, but the bar would need to be designed to accept a winch. I am not keen on the more elaborate bars that include protection for the grill & headlights. Thanks.

Given that you don't want a full bumper (I'm assuming that's what you mean by "elaborate" and it sounds like your goal with this is to mount a winch I think this is your best option:
Bud Built Hidden Winch Mount

Maybe even your only option? I don't think any of the simple cosmetic bars are built to accept a winch. Usually just for looks or to make room to mount a couple of lights etc.

 

[3wbdriver]

I've been kind of looking for the same thing. I'm afraid the new nose job may have changed things around just enough the aftermarket has to catch up. I'd like to get something like a pre-runner bumper, but I don't want to just cover up the new cheek openings for the driving lights.

 

[Mark_W]

Thanks for the link to the Bud Built gear, I will check out their web site.

 

[Canazes9]

Given that you don't want a full bumper (I'm assuming that's what you mean by "elaborate" and it sounds like your goal with this is to mount a winch I think this is your best option:
Bud Built Hidden Winch Mount

Maybe even your only option? I don't think any of the simple cosmetic bars are built to accept a winch. Usually just for looks or to make room to mount a couple of lights etc.

Good points, but you forgot one of the primary bull bar functions which is to serve as a damage multiplier. By both adding length to the nose and an additional couple inches underneath, they really increase the potential to make contact with stuff off-road. And thanks to their flimsy construction they provide a significant increase in the likelihood of an otherwise light scrape resulting in thousands of dollars in damage...

David

 

[eddiebx]

Good points, but you forgot one of the primary bull bar functions which is to serve as a damage multiplier. By both adding length to the nose and an additional couple inches underneath, they really increase the potential to make contact with stuff off-road. And thanks to their flimsy construction they provide a significant increase in the likelihood of an otherwise light scrape resulting in thousands of dollars in damage...

David

Just curious here because I am really not sure of the proper definition, but technically aren't "bull bars" actually those whole bumpers you see with the integrated hoops?

Exhibit A: Bull Bars / Bumpers & Tire Carriers

Though, usually when you hear bull bar, you think about those faux push bars you're talking about...

 

[Canazes9]

Just curious here because I am really not sure of the proper definition, but technically aren't "bull bars" actually those whole bumpers you see with the integrated hoops?

Exhibit A: Bull Bars / Bumpers & Tire Carriers

Though, usually when you hear bull bar, you think about those faux push bars you're talking about...

No - in the case of the link you posted they are the hoops on the bumper. Useful (to some extent) on a heavy duty bumper. When mounted over an OEM style bumper they are the equivalent of the comparison between tube steps and sliders.

OP specified no bumper, just bolt on bull bars - ex.:

Westin Automotive

David