ARB bull bar install w/ pictures

So, I couldn't find a really good ARB bull bar installation thread and it made me nervous to take it on by myself, but it turned out fine. Use these pictures to help make sense of the terrible ARB instructions. I would have felt more comfortable if I had seen some more pictures, so this is my way of giving back to the wonderful TW community.

Some said it is absolutely a two person job, others said they did it themselves. I will say, it is possible with one person (and I did it by myself), but it will be easier to level our with a friend.

Follow the bumper removal thread on TW to remove the cap and aluminum plate. It is also important to remove the two bolts below the frame studs as the receiver won't fit with them still installed.



Next, completely organize your hardware. It takes a long time, but it really pays off.




This was the most time consuming part, making sure all the bolts, nuts, washers and spring washers had a place on the receiver. Again, stay organized and take your time.

I had a furniture dolly on hand to help maneuver the bull bar around. Helpful if you don't have someone to help.

I also added the turn signals here. I think this was a ridiculous design by ARB, assuming I installed them correctly. I have yet to find a good turn-signal install guide, so I followed the pictures as best I could.


picture of the bumper set in place, but not bolted. Again, this was very time consuming to get it correctly positioned. I ended up being about an inch off-center, but I can fix it later. I would have noticed it if I had someone there checking that with me while I adjusted the 6 receiver bolts.

After that, just attach the rock guard and you are done.



Finished with the grill reattached. I still haven't wired the turn signals or HIDs, but it should be a quick weekend project.



I should add that I would be happy to answer any questions that someone might have, even if you are reading this months in the future.

 

What the heck? You have an airport terminal for a garage? haha...Nicely done!

 

Ha, I share it with about 45 other people. It is an underground parking garage in our apartment complex. I wish I had my own garage this size.

 

Subd

 

Looks great. Did you have to trim the fender liners?

 

Just curious, did you install a leveling kit? I would really like to put one on my 03', but I don't want too much forward (or rearward) rake with a leveling kit. I have heard mixed reviews on leveling kits, and I really don't want to lift my truck or drastically change my suspension geometry. Would a 1/2" spacer do the trick and allow me to retain my existing shocks?