There is no doubt an aftermarket Iron bumper will improve the appearance of your vehicle. Not only will it give your vehicle more presence and character, but they are also designed to enhance your vehicle’s off-road performance and capabilities by increasing your vehicle’s approach and departure angles while traversing difficult, uneven terrain.
An iron bumper will protect your vehicle from damaging debris and supply an excellent mounting point for accessories such as a winch, recovery points, and additional lights. Of course, they are aesthetically pleasing as well.
Pros And Cons of Steel Bumpers
Like most modifications, before installing an iron bumper, let’s look at the pros and cons. There are a few critical factors to consider when installing an iron bumper. Firstly, consider the weight difference; an iron bumper is considerably heavier than your vehicle’s stock bumper.
The added weight can wreak havoc on suspension components such as the shocks and coils, suspension bushings, and other vital components. Furthermore, the added weight will affect your vehicles handling characteristics and braking dynamics. This can place more wear and tear on your front tires. To prevent this, make sure you perform tire rotations regularly.
How To Counteract the Additional Weight of An Iron Bumper?
The average iron bumper weighs from 60lbs to 150lbs, not to mention the extra weight of accessories like spotlights, a winch, and other add-ons.
The answer to this problem may not agree with your wallet. In order to compensate for the added weight, you need to address upgrading your suspension system.
In all fairness, if you are serious about off-roading, upgrading your suspension system should be the first priority before considering an Iron bumper.
You should consider performance shocks and upgraded coils. Additionally, it would help if you upgraded your control arms, sway bars, and vital suspension bushings to help manage the extra weight. These upgrades will allow your vehicle to handle the additional weight and provide you with the performance necessary to handle difficult terrain.
Once you address upgrading your suspension system, an Iron bumper can provide you with many benefits, as mentioned before. Along with a skid plate and a roll bar, an iron bumper will provide your vehicle with the protection it needs when traversing challenging terrain. It will help mitigate damage to vital components to your engine and radiator and help keep you and your passengers safe in an unforeseen accident.
Factors To Consider When Buying an Iron Bumper
Besides aesthetics, look for reputable brands designed to operate with your vehicle’s sensors and airbag compatibility. Talk to the manufacturer and a professional mechanic to ensure that the bumper is right for your vehicle and is installed correctly. Look for features that meet your specific needs, such as mounting points and recovery points. Above all, make sure the bumper gives your vehicle the desired look and function that meets your requirements.
Conclusion
Iron bumpers are a stylish yet functional upgrade. They provide better protection against debris and other obstructions. It will also enhance your vehicle’s off-road performance and capabilities by increasing its approach and departure angles while traversing difficult, uneven terrain.
As mentioned above, it is recommended to upgrade vital suspension components such as your vehicle’s shocks, coil springs, control arms, and suspension bushings to help manage the added weight.
When shopping for an Iron bumper, look for reputable brands known for quality builds and are compatible with your vehicle’s airbag sensors to ensure safety.
Remember that aesthetics is important, but the priority should be functionality. Consider your specific needs and the functionality you are looking for. Will you be mounting added accessories such as spotlights, a winch, or recovery points? Before purchasing, make sure the bumper meets all your needs.
Suppose all the necessary suspension upgrades are met. In that case, an Iron bumper will be an excellent upgrade, giving your vehicle the presence and functionality that will help it stand out from the crowd.
In the world of customization, enthusiasts pay attention to every detail. Do your research before making any upgrades. Keep in mind functionality as well as aesthetics. And above all, be safe, and have fun.
