So, you’re in the market to upgrade that flimsy stock bumper that came standard with your truck? You need a versatile bumper that can actually protect your vehicle. If you’ve done your research, you know that it’s time to answer this key question: should I buy a pre-assembled aftermarket bumper or a DIY bumper kit?
If you’re considering purchasing a heavy-duty bumper, you’re probably a truck lover, and we know how much thought and consideration goes into the decisions you make for your truck. To make the right choice for you and your truck, there are important factors that you should consider before purchasing a heavy-duty aftermarket bumper.
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons.
PROS:
LOWER COSTS
Firstly, let’s look at some price differentials.
Our classic front bumper kit starts at $495. For an assembled bumper of this quality, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 - $1,500. Our classic full grill kit starts at $750. Pre-assembled grills range anywhere from $2,500 - $4,000. That’s an average savings of 300% - 400% per item when you choose a DIY bumper kit. From a financial standpoint, DIY kits can save you some serious dough, especially if you plan on adding more than one upgrade to your bumper.
MORE CUSTOMIZATION
Unlike traditional pre-built bumpers, all of our kits are highly customizable, and even allow for additional customization after you build them. By choosing a DIY bumper kit, you’re choosing a bumper that you can customize to meet the demands of any situation you put your truck in. DIY gives you the freedom to build a bumper to meet your exact specifications with leeway to add or subtract features as you see fit.
Here are a few customization options:
Wing Light Holes:
Our bumper kits come standard without light holes. However, you can customize them to have 1 or 2 sets of light holes at a small additional charge.
Center Light Holes:
You can add a 20-inch or 30-inch light bar to your bumper kit for a small customization fee.
Off-Road Upgrade/Winchmount Setup:
We offer two off-road upgrades. The first off-road upgrade features 1/4" center, 1/4" frame mounts and larger clevis hooks. We can also cut a lead hole for the winch in the front of the bumper, along with a 3/16” winch mounting plate and two access holes.
CONS:
SKILLS AND EQUIPMENT
Building your own custom bumper requires basic equipment and welding skills:
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mig welder capable of welding 1/4” plate
- 4-1/2” angle grinder with grinding wheels, cutting wheels and buffing wheels
- Welding blanket or some means of protection for the truck
- Chop saw (convenient for pre-runners and full grilles but not required)
Alternatively, if you don’t have the tools and skills to assemble your bumper, but you want the customization that DIY offers, you can order a custom bumper kit and bring it to a professional to install.
TIME AND EFFORT
Building a bumper takes time. Typical build times vary based on your experience level with fabricating; on average, the process takes roughly 4-5 hours. This time and effort is an important aspect to consider when deciding which type of bumper to choose.FINAL THOUGHTS
So, pre-assembled or DIY? Both can be great options. However, the biggest determinants are customization, cost and effort. If you want to save money, and you’re willing to put in some elbow grease to protect your truck and build your perfect bumper, then a MOVE DIY bumper kit is definitely for you.