yes I agree, a local guy is the way to go, what my guy does is take the original off, then mocks up a bumper with card board and sticky tape, when it looks about right and the design is agreed, he then cuts the cardboard apart so as to make a template to lay onto a sheet of steel, plasma cuts out the profile then bends the steel into shape with the aid of shaped wooden blocks a gas axe, and hammer etc, he makes it look easy, and I suppose it is if that's your game, with a good bit of welding he then dresses the welds so as they are invisible,end result looks very professional. A front bumper starts with a winch mount which is bolted into place, ( looks just like a vey large piece of angle) then adds the sides to it ( cardboard mock up first ) I suppose that is the way they all do it, but taken step by step, it is the way to go, you get it right in one.
what I like about my own is I don't have the " mad max" look, although a double take is often seen , but I think they look as if they could have come from the factory with them, they don't add any length to the overall, but they do cut the mustard. Mine are still a work in progress as I want a side ladder, and non slip grips on the upper surfaces for climbing. Also a rear wheel/ double Jerry can swing always are on the cards also, but that's the thing, add- ones are easy when you have already factored them in the plan at the off.
hope this helps, have fun, Best Regards, Bill Westley
