I was going to originally cut back the frame horns and pull the front bumper closer in to the front valance. After much thought and checking out many, many trucks at local shows, I have decided to remove the front bumper all together. Does anyone have a solid dimension that you know works? How far from the front of the frame horn should I go back to cut the horns and allow clearance for the front valance? After cutting the horns back, did anyone weld or bolt a cross member at the front of the new frame locations to act as a bumper behind the valance in the possibility of an accident? I'm down to bare frame right now, and am certain this is the direction I'd like to go. Any help in doing this would be very much appreciated.

 

I put my front valance back on and marked it, then cut it, that's all. But a crossmember as a hidden bumper would be a good idea.

 

Thanks...

I am literally bare frame right now. I suppose it's one of the easier things to get too. I could just wait until I start putting body work on I suppose...

 

I'm putting fog lights in the two holes where the frame poked through.

Ben in Austin

 

The heavy ribbed bumper on '51-'52 was touted as strengthening the frame substantially. I noticed a difference when I got mine bolted up solidly. I don't see what a crossmember could hurt, especially with an IRS. They like rigid frames.

 

A cross brace is a good idea. I like the running light idea also. That will look good !!!! Maybe even cut a flat spot in the middle for a front tag. If ya did something like this and used a fliped down tag you could even weld a tow hook to the brace just in case you need to pull it.

 

Yeah I would 2nd tow eye. Wish I had fitted one... well ya never know I may do over the winter and make a brace to ;o)... thanks for the ideas