Rear bumper, what would you pick?

in terms of the 4x4 labs bumper......I do like that clearance and integrated hitch. Not a cheap bumper by any means....How is the installation process?? Can a weekend DIY get it done or is any cutting/welding needed? I've done suspension/BMC and all other mods myself without any help..but I am far far from any good at most of it!!
 
in terms of the 4x4 labs bumper......I do like that clearance and integrated hitch. Not a cheap bumper by any means....How is the installation process?? Can a weekend DIY get it done or is any cutting/welding needed? I've done suspension/BMC and all other mods myself without any help..but I am far far from any good at most of it!!

Take a look at this video by Wanderlost. They do a good job of making it look easy.

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That puts the spare so far out though, makes the truck even longer. With the Shrockworks bumper, my 4Runner still fits in the garage even with my workbench in front of it. It also seems like people are more likely to re-end you because they can't tell from straight behind how far out that tire sticks.

Maybe, it’s hard to say if it just looks like it sticks out further based off how tucked in the spindles are to the body, versus a larger bumper with spindles/carriers that are more upright but placed further away.
 
Take a look at this video by Wanderlost. They do a good job of making it look easy.

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Their vids are great. But that’s a CBI rear bumper. My question was regarding the 4x4 labs rear bumper, and with the integrated hitch if that requires and cutting on the truck metal.

For me it’s eithwr the SSO, the C4 and this 4x4 labs bumper has me looking at it too.
 
Sure, here you go...
This is the gap:
20190223_085838_zpssfxp1x0p.jpg

Not the best picture, couldn't hold the tape measure and the phone properly, but there is actually less than 8" between the tire and the hatch:
20190223_090115_zpsfrutjvmh.jpg

Only about an inch and a half from the Gobi ladder:
20190223_090154_zpsx5z4k2fw.jpg

BUT... the mount is adjustable, so I have room to move the tire even closer if I wanted to, I'd say I still have more than an inch left to move back:
20190223_090220_zpstzzxowpm.jpg


I just looked to see when I put the bumper on, I installed in January 2017. So, I've had it for 2 years now and in that 2 years I've done a LOT of trails, camping, etc. Never once have I had any issues with this bumper. I've even towed with it's hitch receiver many times without issue. I can't speak for the other bumpers out there, but I can tell you, you won't be disappointed with the Shrockworks one.

Here’s 4x4Labs for comparison. Non-table swingouts sit quite a bit closer to the tailgate.
 

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C4 install...1/2 way there

Here are a couple of shots of my C4 bumper at its 1/2 way point of install.
I’ll post the completed project once I pick up.
C4s rear bumper didn’t exist when I was building my truck on paper early 2018. By Fall 2018 when I was ready it was a compelling option so I pulled the trigger.

Someone earlier asked about dual vs single. I don’t have any actual experience living with one vs the other. I chose the single for a few reasons. 1. My fridge and cooking stuff I keep in the drawers on my driver side and while the swing arm can swing way out I didn’t want the busyness if having to always maneuver around the driver side swing arm at camp. 2. I wanted to mount a hi-lift jack horizontally along the bumper out of the way which is only possible w the single swing arm. 3. If a latch failure occurs, seems easier to me to strap down a single swing arm w it’s single pivot point. Having said all this, I still think it comes down to preference and what you want to use all these cool toys for and how you envision them for yourself!

I’ll post more pics and experiences as I get both.

Have one more big, for me at least, project after the rear bumper (water tank in spare tire cavity) and then I’m going to share the my build in a mostly seen before build thread of my own.
 

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Here are a couple of shots of my C4 bumper at its 1/2 way point of install.
I’ll post the completed project once I pick up.
C4s rear bumper didn’t exist when I was building my truck on paper early 2018. By Fall 2018 when I was ready it was a compelling option so I pulled the trigger.

Someone earlier asked about dual vs single. I don’t have any actual experience living with one vs the other. I chose the single for a few reasons. 1. My fridge and cooking stuff I keep in the drawers on my driver side and while the swing arm can swing way out I didn’t want the busyness if having to always maneuver around the driver side swing arm at camp. 2. I wanted to mount a hi-lift jack horizontally along the bumper out of the way which is only possible w the single swing arm. 3. If a latch failure occurs, seems easier to me to strap down a single swing arm w it’s single pivot point. Having said all this, I still think it comes down to preference and what you want to use all these cool toys for and how you envision them for yourself!

I’ll post more pics and experiences as I get both.

Have one more big, for me at least, project after the rear bumper (water tank in spare tire cavity) and then I’m going to share the my build in a mostly seen before build thread of my own.


That looks fantastic. I think thats the one I'll pull the trigger on. Cant wait to see you finished details.....

Also, usually their Hi-lift mount is vertical, are you retrofitting or did they custom something for you? Id rather horizontal carry it as well.
 
For those who have added steel rear swing outs after adding the weight any regrets or things you would have done different? Has it changed your drive ability of it?

Also those that installed a C4 I’m assuming the install was pretty straight forward if you watch their install video on line? I’m assuming anyone with some knowledge with suspension and car knowledge could do it without messing up?
 
That looks fantastic. I think thats the one I'll pull the trigger on. Cant wait to see you finished details.....

Also, usually their Hi-lift mount is vertical, are you retrofitting or did they custom something for you? Id rather horizontal carry it as well.


I had some back and forth email dialogue with C4 over what I wanted and what would be possible re the positioning of the tire and can/jack mount options. Nothing custom necessary for the horizontal hi-lift mount. Horizontal position was their original intent prior to the dual swing development is my understanding. So no need for anything custom re hi-lift horizontal mount for single swing arm; though it’s not an option on dual swing outs, would have to go vertical.
 
A few more of the 4x4 Labs rear bumper, pulled from my build thread to show the clearances on an otherwise stock 4Runner, another shortly after new suspension. I haven't taken any shots of the bumper specifically but I can next time I'm out.

Edit: the cutouts in the side of the bumper just forward of the carrier spindles are for a hi-lift style jack, we've used them and they work well.

I’ve always wondered what those cutouts were for. I’m ordering some parts from them, for a build and I’m really looking forward to it!
 
How long ago was this? I have their front bumper in steel and almost gave up on them after a couple of months of waiting. Had them power coat it and it came out great.

Front was from end of June through the week of expo east so Nov 5 or 6 I was originally told 8-10 weeks it was like 21 weeks to my door. Rear bumper was from expo so nov 8 to last week when I canceled the order when they pretty much told me they didn’t care about me as a customer aft I was reassured by both owners no more than 10 weeks!

Sorry to hear about your experience. CBI is going the way of Pelfreybilt. Doing a lot more talking, social media, events, tradeshows and partnering with boobtubers than actually making products. They acquired Prinsu Racks and the quality has gone down-hill since. You can't get accurate or good information of their products on their website.

I don't have any CBI products but I've seen enough smoke that I'll stay away from them. They seem dishonest at best.

Back to the OP's question. I'd suggest C4, Shrockworks, 4x4 Labs, Brute Force, and Relentless. While I think the C4 has the best design it is the priciest and all I really want is a rear bumper for a tire and fuel carrier and maybe the table. If it was my money I'd go with Shrock, Brute, or Relentless.

Believe I’m done with that company!
 
I went with C4 Fab because 1. its the most heavy duty built bumper 2. you can raise and lower the spare tire hieght where you like it, it has several bolt holes ot move it. I can see out back window clearly and I also did the camera relocation with their factory camera mount and can see out back clearly too.

Also I love the camp table and the way their latch system works there is no chance for vibration. You notice the latch area 2 white plastic blocks going into an angled receiver. Which means it guides it into position AND also means it is fully supported on the blocks which virtually eliminates any chance of vibration and takes all the stress off the spindle while driving.

Most of the failures of the spindle and vibration issues you have read about on all different brands is because they were not supported well on the opposite end from the spindle. which causes side load on the spindle and allows it to vibrate.

C4 did a fantastic job of taking every detail into consideration for along lasting bumper. And the large camp table is a plus.

Also i went with single arm because I only want to have to open one arm to open my hatch and not have to do it twice every time.

I was also happy it cleared my baja ladder just fine
 

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Last edited:
Here are a couple of shots of my C4 bumper at its 1/2 way point of install.
I’ll post the completed project once I pick up.
C4s rear bumper didn’t exist when I was building my truck on paper early 2018. By Fall 2018 when I was ready it was a compelling option so I pulled the trigger.

Someone earlier asked about dual vs single. I don’t have any actual experience living with one vs the other. I chose the single for a few reasons. 1. My fridge and cooking stuff I keep in the drawers on my driver side and while the swing arm can swing way out I didn’t want the busyness if having to always maneuver around the driver side swing arm at camp. 2. I wanted to mount a hi-lift jack horizontally along the bumper out of the way which is only possible w the single swing arm. 3. If a latch failure occurs, seems easier to me to strap down a single swing arm w it’s single pivot point. Having said all this, I still think it comes down to preference and what you want to use all these cool toys for and how you envision them for yourself!

I’ll post more pics and experiences as I get both.

Have one more big, for me at least, project after the rear bumper (water tank in spare tire cavity) and then I’m going to share the my build in a mostly seen before build thread of my own.

Looking forward to seeing this in person soon, I think it'll push me over the edge and force my hand on a C4.
 
Install complete

I’m a iPhone pic guy so forgive quality and lack of imagination!
So far I’m very happy with it. I haven’t yet bounced it around off road but there is nothing light duty here. Lots of options re how to mount your gear which I really like.
I have the heavy Icon springs and frankly the weight of the bumper has smoothed my ride out.
 

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I am shopping a rear bumper with swing out tire carrier for my 5th Gen and I would like to hear from those that currently own one of these listed bumpers or from those that are shopping as well and why they would or would not pick a certain bumper. Let's hear it! ***If it's not listed it's likely because I have no interest in it.

* CBI

* Hefty Fab

* C4

* Shrockworks

I'll admit than I am leaning towards Shrockworks simply because they are a local company and their design is simple and keeps the tire and fuel cans low for less rattle, better COG, and better rear visibility. It is not my favorite design of the bunch but those factors combined with a great price ($1999) make for a pretty attractive package.

I had considered 4x4Labs and SSO as well but I am turned off by the looks and price on both. I'll admit that the rear tailgate on the SSO is a neat feature.
Been leaning heavy on the C4 lately
 
I’m a iPhone pic guy so forgive quality and lack of imagination!
So far I’m very happy with it. I haven’t yet bounced it around off road but there is nothing light duty here. Lots of options re how to mount your gear which I really like.
I have the heavy Icon springs and frankly the weight of the bumper has smoothed my ride out.



Looks great. I wasn't aware that C4 doesn't power coat the bumper. What was the cost of your power coat? I'll probably go for it anyway, but a tad of a pain in the A$$
 
Looks great. I wasn't aware that C4 doesn't power coat the bumper. What was the cost of your power coat? I'll probably go for it anyway, but a tad of a pain in the A$$

Agreed on the powered coat. Though it’s nice to get exactly the color/finish you want. C4 has a lot of pieces that come with bumper so that drives up the cost of powder costing. Was $500 in Houston. I had the installer send it to their powder coater and I think that helps the price. I took my front bumper to someone myself and got hosed a bit on pricing as I didn’t really know what to expect re pricing and they knew it. Lol. Live and learn...ask me in 6 months or 6 years if cost mattered that much and I’ll say no, I just want to be pleased with results and I def am. I highly recommend the C4.

Side note, I’ve read of other forum members experiences of having the power coat done by the product seller and arrived with finish damaged enough to need real attn to fix. Maybe a mixed blessing to have done yourself?
 
Looks great. I wasn't aware that C4 doesn't power coat the bumper. What was the cost of your power coat? I'll probably go for it anyway, but a tad of a pain in the A$$

Mine was $600 in Denver. However, as I said earlier I know for sure the work was done right as I've used this shop for coating before. As well having it shipped bare eliminates the risk of the coating getting damaged during transit
 
I’m in Houston area and am having the C4 bumper installed as I type this. I’ll post some pics when I get it back and would be happy to meet for coffee if you want to see in person and are as local to Shrockworks as I am.


Whenever yall meet up, Id like to see it too....
 
Mine was $600 in Denver. However, as I said earlier I know for sure the work was done right as I've used this shop for coating before. As well having it shipped bare eliminates the risk of the coating getting damaged during transit

What shop in Denver did you us? Ive used Blueflame in the past for a full front for my 1st Gen Tundra, but I couldnt get ahold of them for the life of me when I got my 2010-2013 low pro so I went with another shop. Definitely not as nice as Blueflame, but I needed it done quick as the bare steel was strapped to my truck and rusting by the second lol.

Looking into a C4 rear and just curious who youve used.
 

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