Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

Pacific Fabrication · 10-06-2011, 07:14 PM

A bit of introduction. Pacific Fabrication is your one stop custom automotive fabrication shop that will satisfy all of your specialty automotive needs. Whether you're building a custom hot rod, a street car, or an off road vehicle, we have the tools and experienced staff to do a complete and professional job. We specialize in custom suspensions, race car fabrication, restorations, complete wiring harnesses, tube bending, and metal fabrication. We sell and install everything from a simple set of wheels and tires to lift kits, lowering kits, custom airbag systems all the way up to aftermarket superchargers, turn-key Chevrolet LS motors, and complementing LS swap parts.

We are currently prototyping a winch bumper for the 67-72 chevy trucks, blazers, and suburbans. Before we finalize the design we would like to get your feedback. Good or bad. Heres some pictures of the current bumper.

We would really like opinions on the sides.
option 1

option 2

option 3

-Its built to accept all of the warn winches, forward mount or bottom mount. Pictured with a 12k forward mount.
-Uses 2.5" round LED turn signals
-Cut outs for Square driving lights
-The center will be 1/4" steel for strength, the rest 1/8" to cut down on weight.
-Tow points for D-Rings integrated
-We are thinking about options as far as tube grill guards and headlight guards.
-No cutting of stock sheet metal or grill. Unless you want to, Then we will have an additional set of holes for you to tuck the bumper even farther back (likely around 1"-1.5").
-Should fit 2wd and 4wd trucks.

(yes this is being modeled on a 2wd. It will also be getting lifted in the front to level it out.) Oh and take a peak under the hood.

68panelman · 10-06-2011, 07:24 PM

I like option #2.

vectorit · 10-06-2011, 07:35 PM

Looks good, and welcome to the board!

So nice to see a shop cater to the 4x4 scene in regards to old iron trucks.

Personally, I'd like to see the sides angle up rather than squared. Possibly just continue the angle from the front center, then let it continue to the outer corners. So I am leaning towards option 3

What's the price range going to be on this when you get it dialed in?

PanelDeland · 10-06-2011, 07:45 PM

I believe I would make the center an in or so deeper(top to bottom) and lower the winch and tuck it under a bit.Shouldn't affect approach angle much if any and would allow the bumper to "tuck" a bit more.

You did ask for an opinion.

into69z · 10-06-2011, 08:16 PM

I like the angle on option #2....a nice grille guard maybe like to factory optioned type( I think it was factory,maybe not). Wonder how much spring you will have to add to make it balance( I have a big block with dual batteries)............very cool idea however-thanks

extd56 · 10-07-2011, 12:21 AM

That would look good on my crew cab, not that I would ever use it.

Sequoyah · 10-07-2011, 08:59 AM

I'd say a variation on #2. You should take the angle from the very front of the hood and change the area on each outside part of the bumper and use the same angle to wrap it around. IMO it should relate to the truck somehow and what someone above said...a grille guard that is made from flat stock that is bent. I've seen pics before, but I just don't have any.

**71blksuper4x4** · 10-07-2011, 03:20 PM

I like the angle on option #3, but I think the bumper would look better and get more attention if the bottom of the bumper was angle in. It seems bumper companies like Road Armor and such have a big following, and I do like the looks of their angle in bumpers. I have never seen one designed for our trucks that has this angled in affect and a lot quite like your design. My 2 cents. Trevor

OJ1988 · 10-07-2011, 03:30 PM

Just doesn't look right. But, I can't really offer much more than what others have said.

Maybe a sharper angle from the winch to the ends, when viewed from above? Get rid of some of the mass. Its just to big and bulky, doesn't flow with the truck, imo.

Great craftmanship though.

**special-K** · 10-07-2011, 05:28 PM

They're all too bulky. That's as simple as I can put it. I'd go for a narrower more tapered to the ends look. End up with no more than 4" at the ends. I think you have one too many sections on each side. I think if it was straight across the center,then angled back,with ends on it,possibly angled a bit,it would look better.

elks · 10-07-2011, 10:37 PM

For me they look fine. I understand why people do not want the bulky aspect, but form follows function. I say it look fine. I would hesitate a bit due to the approach angle restriction. But then again I committed a sin and shaved my body to improve this. There are bumpers set up with hidden winches. They hide the winch up under the front between the frame rails, below the radiator. I would like to see an after market bumper that provides the strength of an aftermarket with the hidden/tucked in effect. Over all they look finne. Add an elk killer grill and sell the heck out of em. PS here is the bumper on my 72 blazer. Not perfect, but I like the open look of the ladder style...

SS Tim · 10-08-2011, 08:54 AM

Option #2 is close but still needs tweaking to flow better. You should also consider offfering it without cutouts for the pre-'71s.
A diamond plate step surface on top would be great to have as well. A flat stock guard should also be explored. Here are some found pictures.

OJ1988 · 10-08-2011, 09:23 AM

That last one on the yellow truck looks great!

Elks, I like your tube style one as well.

Boy this takes me back to my jeep days.

I have contemplated building a 4x4 69 as well.

Pacific Fabrication · 10-10-2011, 12:23 PM

Thanks for all the feedback guys. We dont have a price just yet but I will keep you guys updated when we nail down one.

*stich626* · 10-10-2011, 02:28 PM

have you tried one without thinning(height) the ends.. with a bumber that bulky, I'd think it look better if the height was the same on the sides as the center..
and in doing so, will being the bumber line in line with the lower edge of the front wheel lip..
also on a truck of this vintage, and the idea of off roading..
I'd send the rectange "driving light holes" stiaght to the drawing board, and make round holes that a nice big hella light will fit..
I like option one, but with that said ,you are like an inch from the wheel opening, maybe exstend it a little more and follow the wheel opening curve so the bumper look like it belongs on the truck... it's already a tank.. and the extra 6 lb of steel isn't gonna make or break the shipping..
and yes I'd put one on my 2wd if the top wasn't open like it is for the winch,, as it(the winch) that size is overkill on a 2wd truck.. but a bad@zz ,get out of my way bumper is just the ticket..
YOU ASKED

Beelzeburb · 10-10-2011, 03:34 PM

I personally prefer look #3 with the little bit of angle like the stock bumper. Of course, I'd also go for the tuck back 1.5" option and paint mine white if I were to ever order one. My question is, where will the D-rings attach?

1972RedNeck · 10-10-2011, 08:35 PM

I like option 2. Could you post some pictures of how it is mounted? Would it cover the park lights on a GMC? I would be more interested if a grille guard was made into it.

**Dieselwrencher** · 10-10-2011, 08:51 PM

I prefer option #3.

bigbadchev72 · 10-10-2011, 09:39 PM

I also prefer option #3 I think that the round driving lights look alot better than the square ones as well. I am looking at buildinig something very similar to this one once my Jimmy sells. I really like the clean look of this bumper and Would also be interested in a price if you think you could make one similar.

mcmlxix · 10-11-2011, 03:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bigbadchev72

I also prefer option #3 I think that the round driving lights look alot better than the square ones as well. I am looking at buildinig something very similar to this one once my Jimmy sells. I really like the clean look of this bumper and Would also be interested in a price if you think you could make one similar.

I second this design, but I like that your design has the extra edge as it transitions from front to top. I like how this bumper tucks under the fender. I do realize that the requires cutting the fender.

For sides, I like option #2.
I also agree that driving light should be round, not square.

**72gmguy** · 10-11-2011, 06:40 AM

option 2 is sweet! But agree that round lights look better.

Cumminpwr11 · 11-10-2012, 06:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bigbadchev72

I also prefer option #3 I think that the round driving lights look alot better than the square ones as well. I am looking at buildinig something very similar to this one once my Jimmy sells. I really like the clean look of this bumper and Would also be interested in a price if you think you could make one similar.

jumping in on this a little late, But who builds this bumper pictured? I want one. any prices?

Chris

mcmlxix · 11-11-2012, 08:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cumminpwr11

jumping in on this a little late, But who builds this bumper pictured? I want one. any prices?

Chris

Kennesaw Mountain
member Swyfor5 bought one... in the $800 range.. but had some issues. You can read the whole ordeal in the link below.

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=336921

Lets keep this thread on track for Pacific Fab....

PanelDeland · 10-11-2011, 10:01 AM

I was looking thru this thread again and thought of something you may want tp consider.Though it's a good looking piece and seems well built,I doubt you will find it commercially viable.The reason for that is simple.These trucks are 40 years old.Some are used as true offroad vehicles,but most are just for show.The ones used for real offroad stuff are generally built by the owners who have fab equipment at their disposal.I think most will build their own custom set-up using the ideas they get from bumpers they see. Just my opinion and you probably know your market better than I.

Pacific Fabrication · 10-20-2011, 04:36 PM

Got a 4x4 to mock it up on and snapped some pictures.

10-06-2011, 07:14 PM	#1
Pacific Fabrication Registered User Join Date: Oct 2011 Location: Gilroy, Ca Posts: 613	Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback A bit of introduction. Pacific Fabrication is your one stop custom automotive fabrication shop that will satisfy all of your specialty automotive needs. Whether you're building a custom hot rod, a street car, or an off road vehicle, we have the tools and experienced staff to do a complete and professional job. We specialize in custom suspensions, race car fabrication, restorations, complete wiring harnesses, tube bending, and metal fabrication. We sell and install everything from a simple set of wheels and tires to lift kits, lowering kits, custom airbag systems all the way up to aftermarket superchargers, turn-key Chevrolet LS motors, and complementing LS swap parts. We are currently prototyping a winch bumper for the 67-72 chevy trucks, blazers, and suburbans. Before we finalize the design we would like to get your feedback. Good or bad. Heres some pictures of the current bumper. We would really like opinions on the sides. option 1 option 2 option 3 -Its built to accept all of the warn winches, forward mount or bottom mount. Pictured with a 12k forward mount. -Uses 2.5" round LED turn signals -Cut outs for Square driving lights -The center will be 1/4" steel for strength, the rest 1/8" to cut down on weight. -Tow points for D-Rings integrated -We are thinking about options as far as tube grill guards and headlight guards. -No cutting of stock sheet metal or grill. Unless you want to, Then we will have an additional set of holes for you to tuck the bumper even farther back (likely around 1"-1.5"). -Should fit 2wd and 4wd trucks. (yes this is being modeled on a 2wd. It will also be getting lifted in the front to level it out.) Oh and take a peak under the hood.

10-06-2011, 07:45 PM	#4
PanelDeland I am a Referee of life. Join Date: Jun 2000 Location: Greensboro N.C. Posts: 13,993	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback I believe I would make the center an in or so deeper(top to bottom) and lower the winch and tuck it under a bit.Shouldn't affect approach angle much if any and would allow the bumper to "tuck" a bit more. You did ask for an opinion. __________________ The 47-present Chevrolet and GMC Truck Message Board Network,it's owners,moderators,members,and associates of any type should not be held responsible for my opinion. You can't fix stupid,not even with duct tape. "My appearance is due to the fact that "GOD" does punish you for having too much fun!" Barrett-Jackson has perfected alchemy,they make rust into gold! "You can lead a horse to water but you can't saddle a duck" "Cleverly disguised as a 'Responsible Adult' "Sometimes your Knight in shining armor is just a retard in tinfoil"

10-06-2011, 08:16 PM	#5
into69z "brand new second-hand" Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: White House, Tennessee Posts: 526	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback I like the angle on option #2....a nice grille guard maybe like to factory optioned type( I think it was factory,maybe not). Wonder how much spring you will have to add to make it balance( I have a big block with dual batteries)............very cool idea however-thanks __________________ Steve 69 3/4t custom camper tilt,am/fm,speed warning,air gauge,buddy buckets,aux battery, big block,p/s,p/b,a/c 67 Camaro 96 Impala ss-sold 04 hybrid Honda-saving gas for the blue truck!:b69:

10-07-2011, 12:21 AM	#6
extd56 Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Vacaville, CA Posts: 2,272	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback That would look good on my crew cab, not that I would ever use it. Attached Images

10-07-2011, 08:59 AM	#7
Sequoyah so easy a caveman can do it... Join Date: May 2006 Location: Albuquerque, NM Posts: 419	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback I'd say a variation on #2. You should take the angle from the very front of the hood and change the area on each outside part of the bumper and use the same angle to wrap it around. IMO it should relate to the truck somehow and what someone above said...a grille guard that is made from flat stock that is bent. I've seen pics before, but I just don't have any. __________________ My build thread http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=242380

10-06-2011, 07:24 PM	#2
68panelman Registered User Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Delaware and Long Island, New York Posts: 3,451	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback I like option #2.

10-06-2011, 07:35 PM	#3
vectorit What? Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Southern California Posts: 7,617	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback Looks good, and welcome to the board! So nice to see a shop cater to the 4x4 scene in regards to old iron trucks. Personally, I'd like to see the sides angle up rather than squared. Possibly just continue the angle from the front center, then let it continue to the outer corners. So I am leaning towards option 3 What's the price range going to be on this when you get it dialed in? __________________ Chris 1968 K20 Suburban 1972 K10 LWB PU

10-07-2011, 03:20 PM	#8
71blksuper4x4 SWB 4x4 Collector Join Date: Jun 2001 Location: Osage City, KS Posts: 5,150	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback I like the angle on option #3, but I think the bumper would look better and get more attention if the bottom of the bumper was angle in. It seems bumper companies like Road Armor and such have a big following, and I do like the looks of their angle in bumpers. I have never seen one designed for our trucks that has this angled in affect and a lot quite like your design. My 2 cents. Trevor __________________ TREVOR 1970 CST swb 4x4 (speedwarning,cruise,tilt,tach,8track, original red shoulder belts,tow hooks) 1972 Jimmy (soon to be Hickey cloned) 1971 Cheyenne Super 4x4 swb (tilt,tach,buckets, original blue shoulder belts,am/fm,cruise,tow hooks, dealer 8 track) 1972 Cheyenne Super K20 4x4 Custom Camper (tilt, tach, am/fm, tow hooks, bed toolbox, aux gas tank 1972 Cheyenne Super Crew Cab K30 4x4 Duramax, Allison, np205, buckets, tow hooks (CURRENT PROJECT) http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=624819 1989 V3500 Crew Cab (454tbi, NV4500, np205) 1970 Chevelle SS (LS5 454,th400,8track,buckets,tach) :2004 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon (daily driver) WTB: 1968-70 Cruise Control Lever

10-07-2011, 03:30 PM	#9
OJ1988 Just a car guy Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: New Washington, IN Posts: 991	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback Just doesn't look right. But, I can't really offer much more than what others have said. Maybe a sharper angle from the winch to the ends, when viewed from above? Get rid of some of the mass. Its just to big and bulky, doesn't flow with the truck, imo. Great craftmanship though. __________________ 1955 belair Blown Pro Street cruiser 1971 Camaro Pro Touring 1973 Vega Drag Car 1970 C20 tow rig

10-07-2011, 05:28 PM	#10
special-K Special Order Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Mt Airy, MD Posts: 85,863	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback They're all too bulky. That's as simple as I can put it. I'd go for a narrower more tapered to the ends look. End up with no more than 4" at the ends. I think you have one too many sections on each side. I think if it was straight across the center,then angled back,with ends on it,possibly angled a bit,it would look better. __________________ "BUILDING A BETTER WAY TO SERVE THE USA"......67/72......"The New Breed" GMC '67 C1500 Wideside Super Custom SWB: 327/M22/3.42 posi.........."The '67" (project) GMC '72 K2500 Wideside Sierra Custom Camper: 350/TH350/4.10 Power-Lok..."The '72" (rolling) Tim "Don't call me a redneck. I'm a rough cut country gentleman" R.I.P. ~ East Side Low Life ~ El Jay ~ 72BLUZ ~ Fasteddie69 ~ Ron586 ~ 67ChevyRedneck ~ Grumpy Old Man ~

10-07-2011, 10:37 PM	#11
elks Registered User Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: NW, Colorado Posts: 285	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback For me they look fine. I understand why people do not want the bulky aspect, but form follows function. I say it look fine. I would hesitate a bit due to the approach angle restriction. But then again I committed a sin and shaved my body to improve this. There are bumpers set up with hidden winches. They hide the winch up under the front between the frame rails, below the radiator. I would like to see an after market bumper that provides the strength of an aftermarket with the hidden/tucked in effect. Over all they look finne. Add an elk killer grill and sell the heck out of em. PS here is the bumper on my 72 blazer. Not perfect, but I like the open look of the ladder style... __________________ Confidence is the feeling we have before we fully comprehend the situation

10-08-2011, 08:54 AM	#12
SS Tim Registered User Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Edwards, CA Posts: 7,504	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback Option #2 is close but still needs tweaking to flow better. You should also consider offfering it without cutouts for the pre-'71s. A diamond plate step surface on top would be great to have as well. A flat stock guard should also be explored. Here are some found pictures. Attached Images __________________ Thanks, Tim * VIN/Model Decoders * Power Team Charts (engine/transmission/gear ratio) * Post Your Pickup SPID Blazer SPID Suburban/Panel SPID * RTFM ... Read The Factory Manuals... download 'em here Highlanders Do you have a 1972 Plaid Pickup? Plaid Blazer ** Plaid Suburban

10-08-2011, 09:23 AM	#13
OJ1988 Just a car guy Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: New Washington, IN Posts: 991	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback That last one on the yellow truck looks great! Elks, I like your tube style one as well. Boy this takes me back to my jeep days. I have contemplated building a 4x4 69 as well. __________________ 1955 belair Blown Pro Street cruiser 1971 Camaro Pro Touring 1973 Vega Drag Car 1970 C20 tow rig

10-10-2011, 12:23 PM	#14
Pacific Fabrication Registered User Join Date: Oct 2011 Location: Gilroy, Ca Posts: 613	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback Thanks for all the feedback guys. We dont have a price just yet but I will keep you guys updated when we nail down one.

10-10-2011, 02:28 PM	#15
stich626 Account Suspended Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: hingham ma Posts: 1,721	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback have you tried one without thinning(height) the ends.. with a bumber that bulky, I'd think it look better if the height was the same on the sides as the center.. and in doing so, will being the bumber line in line with the lower edge of the front wheel lip.. also on a truck of this vintage, and the idea of off roading.. I'd send the rectange "driving light holes" stiaght to the drawing board, and make round holes that a nice big hella light will fit.. I like option one, but with that said ,you are like an inch from the wheel opening, maybe exstend it a little more and follow the wheel opening curve so the bumper look like it belongs on the truck... it's already a tank.. and the extra 6 lb of steel isn't gonna make or break the shipping.. and yes I'd put one on my 2wd if the top wasn't open like it is for the winch,, as it(the winch) that size is overkill on a 2wd truck.. but a bad@zz ,get out of my way bumper is just the ticket.. YOU ASKED



Register or Log In To remove these advertisements.

10-10-2011, 03:34 PM	#16
Beelzeburb Devil's in the Details Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Southern Utah Posts: 353	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback I personally prefer look #3 with the little bit of angle like the stock bumper. Of course, I'd also go for the tuck back 1.5" option and paint mine white if I were to ever order one. My question is, where will the D-rings attach? __________________ '70 K10 Suburban - TBI 454, 4L80E, NP241C, Dana 60 & 44 - The 10+ Year Project Thread Datsun 240Z, 510 2 door and an old Honda motorcycle

10-10-2011, 08:51 PM	#18
Dieselwrencher 6>8 Plugless........ Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Prairie City, Ia Posts: 17,141	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback I prefer option #3. __________________ Ryan 1972 Chevy Longhorn K30 Cheyenne Super, 359 Inline 6 cylinder, Auto Trans, Tilt, Diesel Tach/Vach, Buckets, Rare Rear 4-link and air ride option Build Thread 1972 GMC Sierra Grande Longhorn 4x4 1972 Chevy Cheyenne Super K20 Long Step side tilt, tach, tow hooks, AC, 350 4 speed 1972 C10 Suburban Custom Deluxe 1969 Chevy milk truck 1971 Camaro RS 5.3 BTR STG3 Cam Super T10 1940 Ford 354 Hemi 46RH Ford 9" on air ride huge project *Tired of spark plugs? Check this out.*

10-10-2011, 09:39 PM	#19
bigbadchev72 People know me Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Hermiston, oregon Posts: 840	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback I also prefer option #3 I think that the round driving lights look alot better than the square ones as well. I am looking at buildinig something very similar to this one once my Jimmy sells. I really like the clean look of this bumper and Would also be interested in a price if you think you could make one similar. __________________ 1972 k/5 blazer CST 4X4 Crate 350, th350/205, dana44with trac-loc/14 bolt with detroit locker, 4 wheel discs 4.56s, 8" suspension lift using 73-87springs, 1" zerorate custom front crossmember, HAD CV drivelines and driveshaft e-brake, full cage, PRP seats, Full autometer gauges, 38x14.5x16 Toyo M/Ts, 16x10 Polished aluminum rockcrusher wheels 1967 longbox 4x4, Strong 400/400/208, 44/12bolt 4.10s, 6" lift, 35" Toyo M/Ts on corvette rally wheels

10-11-2011, 06:40 AM	#21
72gmguy Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Brigantine NJ Posts: 819	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback option 2 is sweet! But agree that round lights look better. __________________ Jeremy 1969 Blazer 4x4 original cst 1971 Blazer partial 2wd convert 1972 Blazer 4x4 original cst 1970 Blazer 4x4 w/ 2 1/2in lift and 33in tires w/4 wheel camper 1970 4x4 suburban w/ 6in lift and 35in tires 1968 Corvette convertible 1970 Malibu convertible 1959 Brookwood wagon 1972 International Scout ii

10-11-2011, 10:01 AM	#24
PanelDeland I am a Referee of life. Join Date: Jun 2000 Location: Greensboro N.C. Posts: 13,993	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback I was looking thru this thread again and thought of something you may want tp consider.Though it's a good looking piece and seems well built,I doubt you will find it commercially viable.The reason for that is simple.These trucks are 40 years old.Some are used as true offroad vehicles,but most are just for show.The ones used for real offroad stuff are generally built by the owners who have fab equipment at their disposal.I think most will build their own custom set-up using the ideas they get from bumpers they see. Just my opinion and you probably know your market better than I. __________________ The 47-present Chevrolet and GMC Truck Message Board Network,it's owners,moderators,members,and associates of any type should not be held responsible for my opinion. You can't fix stupid,not even with duct tape. "My appearance is due to the fact that "GOD" does punish you for having too much fun!" Barrett-Jackson has perfected alchemy,they make rust into gold! "You can lead a horse to water but you can't saddle a duck" "Cleverly disguised as a 'Responsible Adult' "Sometimes your Knight in shining armor is just a retard in tinfoil"

10-20-2011, 04:36 PM	#25
Pacific Fabrication Registered User Join Date: Oct 2011 Location: Gilroy, Ca Posts: 613	Re: Building a winch bumper, Looking for some feedback Got a 4x4 to mock it up on and snapped some pictures.

Register or Log In To remove these advertisements.