plate steel offroad bumper build

Had someone back into me and kill my flimsy 1996 tacoma factory bumper. Decided to get out the welder and grinder and make something a little sturdier. I also purchased a 3" suspension lift for the truck, which will be installed soon with new shocks and what not. This is my first real fabrication, and i have plans to modify such as some 5 inch driving lights inside the bumper, maybe a receiver etc. Just thought I'd share a few pictures.

 

thinking about adding some hella 500s and maybe some sort of shackles too the bumper any suggestions? Also what do you guys think about stingers? I keep bouncing back and forth between adding one, i have access to the tubing bender needed. Also installing a new exhaust manifold tommorow to avoid damage to exhaust valves. People with older 4 cylinders take a peak at your manifolds, cracks are common. Ill post pics tommorow once replaced.

 

Nice that thing is beefy

 

If there are pics I see nothing.

I just started building one for my friends 98. Designed it on the computer and just started welding all the pieces together.

 

thanks for the compliments, How are you cutting the steel? That was the most time consuming part for me using a dang cut off wheel, would have killed for a plasma

 

Haha computer guided plasma cutter

took about fifteen minutes total

 

haha thats awesome

 

Finished the spindle lift and add a leafs for the rear. Also new ball joints, tie rod ends, and shocks. I love the stance and ride and everything went together pretty easily. The fabtech spindles are beefy, but i did have to grind a very small bit of metal from the spindle so the brake caliper would line up with the bolt holes. Not a big deal, but frustrating when your ready to put your new wheels and tires on. Also spindles widened the front stance quite a bit. The trophy truck look has really grown on me. Heres some pics. Enjoy. 5 lug fo life.