any input for replacement front bumper?

[rMetzger]

Haven't ever hit a deer, but, they're out there just waiting for the right moment. Any of you got suggestions for a HD replacement with grille guard? I've had Ranch Hand on the big truck (Tiny) since appx 2007, and, just like folks warned me at the time, it's got rust. The little 1500 isn't getting Ranch Hand, and I'd kind of like to go with heavy aluminum to save some weight and not affect the ride too much.

Got any preferences or suggestions?

 

[Mark31]

https://www.bumperonly.com/collections/truck-defenders-dodge-ram-1500-front-bumpers

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

I have Fusion bumpers and like them for a combination of strength, moderate weight, and good shape/vents for cooling and air flow to the intercooler.

 

[AHutson]

Look into Aliarc or Herd bumpers. Both are made from aluminum and are popular on semi's around here. They both make pickup versions. I have friend with a 2021 Peterbilt 389 with a herd, he won't have a truck without it. He hauls grain and feed to and from farms, has hit several deer and antelope at highways speeds and the bumper does it's job very well and held up.

 

[DonFitzwater]

Look into Aliarc or Herd bumpers. Both are made from aluminum and are popular on semi's around here. They both make pickup versions. I have friend with a 2021 Peterbilt 389 with a herd, he won't have a truck without it. He hauls grain and feed to and from farms, has hit several deer and antelope at highways speeds and the bumper does it's job very well and held up.

I emailed Herd on several occasions and didn’t even get a response....they still in business?

 

[BarryG]

For aluminum I would also check BuckStop they offer an aluminum version of their bumpers.
https://www.buckstopinc.com/dodge.html

Might also call Denver Off Road Layne makes some nice stuff though you don't hear much about them anymore, but they still have a website up.
http://www.denver-offroad.com/ His bumpers were great. Had one in fact still there on my 01 18 years and not one spec of rust, hit one deer at 65mph, no damage just some blood and hair to clean off.

 

[mwilson]

Yes, Herd is alive and well.

They only offer the AeroLT Plus for the 1500. Only show 2019 model, you would have to call them with the year of the truck.


https://herd.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/herd-pickup-guard-brochure-2021.pdf

 

[CToney]

I have TruckDefender on my 1500. Good quality. Better than AliArc but less $ than Herd.

 

[rMetzger]

Thanks, guys. Will explore

 

[gtwitch]

I have a Trail FX on my 2016/17 2500 and my experience was costly in time diagnosing intercooler issues. So, be observant as to the cooling air path and obstruction of air path to the intercooler, I had to cut extra holes in the bumper front and under the bumper make a closed channel to direct the air flow to the turbo intercooler ( code 068A ) . Just be aware! My efforts have worked as I no longer get the intercooler efficency Code 068A in any type or temperature of driving or towing
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