Westin bull bar thoughts?

Just got my '02 Taco back from the dealer after a full frame replacement. (North East states recall.) I was thinking about putting a Westin Bull bar on it as a welcome back(8 weeks it sat...) Was wondering if anyone had any thoughts. Does it mount to the frame? I can't seem to find any info on where it's going to mount and how sturdy/stable it's going to be. everyone seems to like it though...

 

So... No to bull bars? Why? Brush guards? I live in boston, Brush seems to be few and far between except for those who fall off the highway. I want something somewhat mimialist to maybe mount some fog lights and protect against the errant soccer moms in giant lexus' and suburbans.

 

Yet still no recommendations... 2 and a half inch stainless tubing seems like it may stand up to a bit more than a shopping cart...maybe i miss spoke, A westin grille guard? 33-0905

 

if you live in boston, dont forget bull bar adds a few inches to your truck. not saying that you cant park, but people around you wont take that bar into account

 

Thats what I'm hoping for, I parallel parked in Harvard Square for more than a year. I'm hoping to save some paint on my plastic... Anyone know why the consensus is NO to bull bars? Is everyone going to tell me I need to get a stainless steel bumper assembly with a whinch assembly and a full wrap around brush guard and a sticker that reads "If you can read this, flip me over!"

 

Get a bull bar if you like them. Seems like most people that get one later regret it.

 

Thank you tigerfan!! now that makes sense!! ThaNK you. So... what would you recommend then if I wanted some sort of protection up front? I commute to and from northern VT every month so deer can be an issue. What do You have?

 

I say go for it =)

 

oh and btw, it mounts onto where your front tow hooks are.

 

What is the mounting like on an ABR bumper? is this a professional install only? or something that I can tackle with a buddy, a toll set and a six pack? website for pricing?

 

Ok, so just looked at the Sahara Abr bumper, any thoughts?

 

Tigerfan knows his stuff.

If it's deer you're concerned about I would just increase your insurance coverage. Not much is going to protect the truck from a deer.

Articc22 hit a deer going 55mph
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2nd-gen-tacomas/93531-i-hate-deer.html

For minimal protection and not taking away from my approach angle I've been pleased with my CrossFab light bar. But of course it all goes back to your own personal preference, if you like bull bars go for it.

 

I can't find the thread but I swear I saw one awhile back where a deer did some damage to big bumper. I think it was an All Pro bumper (however the bumper could be repaired) nothing against All Pro they make great stuff.

Anyway you look at it deer are bad news.