98 Tacoma ARB bull bar install

Bumper is arriving tomorrow. I have researched a bunch on this install and found that an expedition west video, which has been highly recommended, is not able to load.. I believe the pre 2000 tacomas need cutting and I can't find anything on it. Timmy tool time's video on the 4runner is great however not the same install as for the crush cans and bracket mount. I have searched the forum pretty good but maybe someone can dig up something for me. The one video on youtube that comes up a lot with parts 1,2, and 3, the guy cuts the shit out of his frame ends and then welds some stuff. I'm looking for more of a text book install lol. As always, appreciate the help.

 

Here's some in progress photos.

Stock bumper removed



Weak caps that should be replaced


Replacement cap




Make sure to grind the weld smooth after this step to help everything line up correctly


Install the winch into the bumper. Make sure it's clocked correctly so you can access everything.


Bumper subframeinstall. Most of it bolts right on, but you do have to drill the frame for some vertical bolts. on each side.Biggest issues I had was the amount of extra hardware they sent and knowing what you had to use. I have an 03 double cab and I believe I did have to use the frame extension blocks to get everything to fit. Just dry fit it all and see if it clears and you'll know if you need them or not.


Completed.

 

Can you do mine Do you know if my 98 requires that same process? I like how that plate is welded in solid like that, tight work. Thanks, I just saw the your message about dry fitting ect.

 

Here is the video I referenced as possibly cutting more than necessary. I see you left your end bits and replaced them. In this video on a 98 it appears he cut them off (further back). Then he welded in the washer for his end bit. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ndEMkGLeoM

 

His original frame end looks way longer than mine was. I though I had to add the included spacer block to get everything to line up, but can't really remember and don't have photos. I can tell you that the crush cans have bolt holes on the bottom that need to line up with the recovery hook bolt holes. So add/remove as necessary to get that to work. I'll also tell you that the crush cans are designed to bolt into the frame end caps. If he just cut them off and didn't replace them, he missed part of the bolt up.

 

Wow, this seems to make it much easier. I think lol http://www.parksoffroad.com/tacomamods/arbbumperupdate/arbbumperupdate.htm

this thread helped me find the parks offroad update. https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/arb-bumper-install.231117/

 

that is quite a gap, do you have a body lift? If not, loosen the six bolts (just a little bit) that hold the actual bumper to the mounts and yank it upwards (or get on the ground and push it upwards with your knees or feet). There is some wiggle room to adjust for the gap. Just loosen the bolts enough that you can move the bumper around but not loose enough that it will not hold in the new position.

 

Before you put that bumper back on get those radiator body bush replaced .

I would say your are past do!

 

No body lift. That photo was just from before going through that process.

Funny you should mention that. The bumper install was 3 years ago, but I just noticed how bad of shape they were in when I looked at these photos. I'll have to snag some for next time I have everything pulled apart