3rd Hybrid bumper - who makes it?

Damn do you have one just like that for a 13 taco?

 

Yes actually we do, its just not on our website yet. We don't have any final install photos of one yet. One of our customers is supposed to be sending some soon. If you would like to order one, let me know.

 

I sent you a pm

 

I am correct in assuming that the factory "lower lip" in the center just snaps in and out? If so, why doesn't C4, Relentless, SSO or anyone else fabricate a slimline metal version that doesn't require cutting and trimming of the factory plastics? What am I missing here, is it not possible for mounting purposes, safety or structural integrity?

 

You are correct regarding the plastic portion; however, I can't speak to the rest but I'm assuming there's a pretty good reason since all the hybrid bumpers I've seen need a bit of cutting.

@RelentlessFab @C4 Fabrication @SouthernStyleOffRoad

 

Yes the plastic fascia does un-clip. But there is also a plastic frame work behind that fascia that has to be cut out to make room for the Lo-Pro bumper to fit into place and bolt onto the frame. Safety and structural integrity are not sacrificed at all. The remaining portions of the plastic bumper attach to the bottom corners of the new winch bumper to hold them in place.

You can see photos of this process here: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...pro-winch-bumper-install-instructions.457125/

 

Like C4 said, the black lip simply un clips, as does the black trim below the grille, however there is a portion of bumper cover behind the lip that must also be removed in order to match body lines and give better space for winch/etc inside.
This is what it looks like when you pull the lip off

 

@C4 Fabrication, have you guys considered doing a matching rear bumper? Something light weight and discrete, but adds a couple of really strong recovery points up high, and maybe relocates the trailer hitch to improve the departure angle?

 

Thank you c4 and your plastic surgery. nothing worse than a girl with an underbite.

 

This is the most mature discussion I've ever seen on this site... kudos guys.

It's rare that people are able to recognize that most bumpers for the same truck are bound to look similar and function the same.

 

Does anyone make one that does not require cutting the Effing bumper? Guess I will have to try and make my own.

 

No, no one does. The only thing you could do without cutting the main bumper is a winch mount with a cutout for the fairlead in the lower fat lip. But that isnt going to give any protection, just mount a winch.

 

That figures. I just want something to protect the front in case I tap a tree or pole. Damn front sticks out so far and the scoop doesn't make it any easier to see.

 

The thought has actually crossed my mind, but we havnt had time to look into creating such a product yet. It is a great idea though!

 

lol you are welcome!

Thanks! I don't feel like its worth the time to try to get into an argument about similar products with other companies. its a waste of time and ultimately accomplishes nothing. It happened to us on IG today with another company and I now regret opening my mouth to try to stick up for our company. It just isn't worth it. We all make some products that cross over and have similarities, but I don't think anyone is out to specifically copy the other.

As @RelentlessFab said, the only thing you could get is a hidden winch mount that fits behind the plastic.

 

These are such great looking bumpers. I'm already saving up...

 

Doooooo it! I bet they will be a hit with people that already have or are considering a hybrid front bumper. I would love the utility of a metal bumper but don't want the "bling" and weight of a full metal one.

For those of you who are complaining about having to cut into your bumper, you can try something like this: http://mobtownoffroad.com/product/3rd-gen-tacoma-front-recovery-bar/
It will give two strong recovery points and a way to mount a winch. Very minimal cutting is required. If you are constantly crashing into trees or poles, though, my first suggestion would be to slow down

 

If you don't want anything too beefy, I think this bolts right on.

http://www.avidoffroad.com/cart/ind...ont-bumper-guard/2016-front-bumper-guard.html

 

Yes, please! That would be wicked. Strong inner bumper, proper recovery points, perhaps a few spots that can be used for a hi-lift, and integrated hitch behind a spring-loaded license plate holder. Improved clearance, no hassle with BSMs, minimal "intrusion" into the original truck, and most of the benefits that people want.

ex. replacing all black that's visible in this photo with the "hybrid rear bumper":



That would be awesome!

 

I was originally really hesitant about cutting the front bumper too, but then I just realized that there is so much room behind the bumper and grille, you could fit a dead body there. Its almost like Toyota was daring everyone to make a bumper so we could stash a winch there. I just bit the bullet and had Relentless Fab cut it up. I don't regret it one bit. I'm actually thinking that one day I will end up putting a full beast bumper on, but this will work for now.