DO front bumper made from aluminum ?

[d_clark]

Looks like DO is exploring the possibility of an aluminum bumper for the FJ.

Possible Option on the DeMello Menu - Toyota FJ Cruiser Forum

 

[BlackWorksInc]

My only concern is the structrual integrity vs. the steel bumpers. They would need to be thicker than the steel counterparts to offer similar "toughness"

 

[d_clark]

My only concern is the structrual integrity vs. the steel bumpers. They would need to be thicker than the steel counterparts to offer similar "toughness"

Here is a quote from DO :

The alumium is 1/4in thick for the winch plate and 3/16in thick for the skin. It's thicker metal than our steel bumpers. It actually feels stronger because of the thicker skin metal.

Part that caught my interest was the weight. Around 40lbs.

 

[Sungod]

Aluminum would be super expensive. It is also soft and brittle. I would like to see a structural steel bumper with aluminum plates.

 

[gaterose]

I saw where they posted about making these a few weeks ago, and I guess they have one now... I'm anxious to see if they'll make a 4th gen bumper like that and what kinda pricing.

You can get Aluminess for $1200 but it's huge.

 

[TRDCal]

My only concern is the structrual integrity vs. the steel bumpers. They would need to be thicker than the steel counterparts to offer similar "toughness"

Aluminum would be super expensive. It is also soft and brittle. I would like to see a structural steel bumper with aluminum plates.

It all depends on the alloy they use and how they design it. The properties of aluminum aren't set in stone. If its too brittle then mix in a metal that's malleable...Its like cooking

 

[BlackWorksInc]

It all depends on the alloy they use and how they design it. The properties of aluminum aren't set in stone. If its too brittle then mix in a metal that's malleable...Its like cooking

This is very true, there are many different aluminum alloys. I have to agree though, in my experience larger/thicker aluminum plates seem to have a tendency to crack rather then bend as much. The other worry I would have is due to aluminum's softer nature, the scarring and gouging you would get from moderate to severe scrapes offroad.

 

[rmarkey]

I'd rather save the weight and chance f'ing it up in accident, rather than burning gas and waiting to see if it holds up in an accident. I'm sure it'll hold up just fine, and actually not rust apart. Besides, a few scrapes and nicks adds character, and makes people think twice, like, "They actually use that bumper, and might push me out of the way if I don't get moving!"

FYI, I think my alumistinger trailer drop hitch is rated a higher weight than the steel one I looked at. No rust and stronger, winner!

I do agree that if not supported correctly, and/or welded correctly, aluminum usually does tend to crack easier. As long as all the edges are rolled or boxed and fully welded everywhere I'm sure it will outlive most other bumpers. It's not like we're bolting it to farm equipment or over-the-road trucks.
There are a few cracked aluminum parts on a few of my big trucks due to the constant vibrations of everyday use, but they are generally in an unsupported spot or poorly welded to begin with.

Being something this compact and supported, I'm sure it'll be worth trying(at the right price of course)

 

[04rnr]

Aluminum bumpers have been arround for a awhile, most people assume they aint as strong as a steel bumper, thats why they aint as well known, check out

Aluminum Bumpers - Tire Racks - Off Road Products - Aluminess Products, Inc.