Bumpers for Jeep JL Rubicon

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Hey all,

Have a new Jeep JLUR that I’m starting to build out as an overlander but I want it to be capable for moderate off-roading. First to be replaced is the plastic bumpers! The problem I’m faced with is the weight. The steel bumpers that appear to be the most protective are well over 100 lbs. The ones I’m leaning towards is the Smittybilt XRC Gen 2, front and back; 130lb in front and 107lb in back. There’s a number of lighter steel bumpers in the 75lb range but they’re just thin steel shells and I feel they’re just a waste of money. The aluminum bumpers are nice but too exspendy at the moment.

What to do? Go with the heavy duty and deal with less payload or go light with more payload?

Thoughts?
 
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Robert Fullen

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I have a steel aftermarket front bumper with winch on my jl , It was the first thing I installed!
 

Billiebob

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Hey all,

Have a new Jeep JLUR that I’m starting to build out as an overlander but I want it to be capable for moderate off-roading. First to be replaced is the plastic bumpers! The problem I’m faced with is the weight. The steel bumpers that appear to be the most protective are well over 100 lbs. The ones I’m leaning towards is the Smittybilt XRC Gen 2, front and back; 130lb in front and 107lb in back. There’s a number of lighter steel bumpers in the 75lb range but they’re just thin steel shells and I feel they’re just a waste of money. The aluminum bumpers are nice but too exspendy at the moment.

What to do? Go with the heavy duty and deal with less payload or go light with more payload?

Thoughts?
Smiyybilt is not a great choice for best buy or strength or engineering. Try AEV for bumpers, they actually engineer in strength vs weight and might be the best buy.
 
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Thanks guys. I’ve been shopping around for something other than smittybilt. I found MetalCloak and their “frame built” bumpers look decent. I did talk to AEV since I’m probably going with their 2.5” lift. Their JL bumper isn’t available yet but I do like the front, not so much the back.
 
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Marman

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I am looking hard at the CavFab rear bumper (have Jeep steel front bumper with winch already). I really like the wrap around for some added protection, not sure on the weigh though.

CavFab Rear bumper