I would like to know if anyone has any specs for measurements on building there own custom front bumper. I want to use round tubing for the top of the bumper, but use flat steel for the base. What thickness does anyone recommend 3/16"? I heard you want to try and keep them under 180 lbs. I dont really care about mounting lights on the bumper, I want it just in case I hit a deer or elk. How much would it run in material cost?

 

under 180 pounds? someone want to explain this? we carry around almost an 800 pound plow on our 98... if there's an "aditional weight bracket" to take into consideration that'd explain why our front end is always trash

 

To have both, you better look into aluminum bumpers.

 

Plate steel comes in common widths and is sold by the pound. Generally if you can design and construct something out of say 1/8 or 3/16 plate with widths of 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 20 you'll be ok.

Flat stock is sold the same way from really small to 2" width.

Aluminum is lighter than mild steel and can be stronger but is almost always more brittle. In otherwords mild steel has much more give to it (a higher elastic limit) and aluminum doesn't and once it breeches that limit it will not be able to reform to original location without work that will make it even more weak, brittle and problematic.

The only issue with weight is that if you don't have good springs it can effect your handling. Also, this is generally accepted as the limit of comfort for guys installing these in their garage or driveway.