OEM vs. aftermarket front bumper

[nobolt]

i'm sure OEM is better quality...
but how can you tell the difference? by weight?
I have a painted bumper that is straight but not original to the truck. V46 front chrome bumper listed on SPID.
it weighs about 30 lbs. and was on the truck for many years. no part numbers.
thanks

[Mister-B]

The factory bumpers tend to be a little thicker metal than the aftermarket. So, yeah- that would translate to weight. I can tell the difference just by knocking on them with my knuckles.

I've had my eye out for a while for a used factory rear bumper, but can't find one that is in good shape. I'm going with Brothers. They seem good quality, and all of their bumpers are on sale right now
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[In The Ten Ring]

I'd go with original if at all possible. That way, you are making it easier to bolt up and you are keeping your truck "original" if not "all original." We do what we can.

Original bumpers are out there man but expect to pay more in shipping since you'll be buying those from individuals.

[nobolt]

I think mine was put on the truck before repops came on the market.
im just trying to figure out an "ironclad" way of identifying an OEM bumper.

[TBONE1964]

Originally Posted by nobolt

I think mine was put on the truck before repops came on the market.
im just trying to figure out an "ironclad" way of identifying an OEM bumper.

This should be easy Dave, just set it out there on the shoulder of M-29 over the winter and if it is complete rust by spring time, then you would have an aftermarket

Seriously, I don't know about weight but I think the chrome finish is nicer on an aftermarket. Most of the aftermarkets I have seen have much more luster than the factory bumpers did, they just don't last as long before the rust takes over.

[nobolt]

just set it out there on the shoulder of M-29

I would try that but it would be in a scrappers truck in 15 minutes, LOL
I have also read here (several times) that the aftermarket bumpers start going to heck after a few years.

[HIGHWAY BY THE SEA]

I sure wish I could find a decent rear bumper for my 68 step side long bed . That reproduction one my dad put on there is terrible because it is for a fleet side . Why do these after market companies not make them for stepsides?

[Mister-B]

Originally Posted by HIGHWAY BY THE SEA

I sure wish I could find a decent rear bumper for my 68 step side long bed . That reproduction one my dad put on there is terrible because it is for a fleet side . Why do these after market companies not make them for stepsides?

They do. Here's one at my favorite vendor, and it happens to be on sale right now http://www.brotherstrucks.com/prodin...number=RR16772
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[HIGHWAY BY THE SEA]

That is not the type of bumper that I am looking for . I need the type which the license tag attaches directly to it and you can step on the top because it is flat. I can never find one of those .

[TBONE1964]

Originally Posted by HIGHWAY BY THE SEA

That is not the type of bumper that I am looking for . I need the type which the license tag attaches directly to it and you can step on the top because it is flat. I can never find one of those .

So you need as step bumper for a step side. You should post a WTB add on the parts board.

You need to become a registered member before you can do that but it is well worth the $25.00 for a year.

[DGulliver]

In my experience, I wouldn't say that the modern chrome is better - not by a long shot!

I believe the difference is in the finish/smoothness of the plating. While the factory bumpers are obviously smooth, the chrome is not "mirror smooth" - there is a small amount of "orange peel", for lack of a better term. It's actually a smaller imperfection than what we call paint type orange peel, but a little rougher than the repros, which have a mirror finish. Maybe it's due to one of the plating layers being thicker? The repops are also considerably thinner metal than the originals I have (and are lighter of course).

The repros I have require regular waxing/polishing to preserve the finish, where the originals can go years with just regular washing. Surface rust will form quickly on the repros if there's not some kind of protective polish on them-even ones kept inside. Just my experience..

[leddzepp]

I have used several repop bumpers from Brothers. Fit and finish is excellent, zero issues. I'd buy another one in a heartbeat.
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