Hi jackedxj,
This is a reprint from a reply I originally wrote to scarm a few weeks ago on Custom 4x4 bumpers. I will add that overall I've been very happy with the work Custom 4x4 has done! I also had a bit of custom work (for theft protection) by adding secondary plating covering exposed bolts. Both Mike and Kathy did a great job on this custom request.
I've got a Custom 4x4 complete winch bumper with brush guards and D-rings. Overall they are outstanding products.
A few notes though:
1) If you get a brush guard, the headlight inner guards (within the frame) can't be removed separately. The entire headlight frame must be removed. This is important if your state laws restrict anything in front of your headlights.
2) Surface protection (powder coating) is far from adequate. I have rust forming in many spots after 7 months. Initially I thought the rust was limited to the exterior surfaces. This could be easily explained by the constant road debris over the winter which would be difficult to really eliminate via surface treatments. However, last week I noticed many rust spots forming within the winch box which is totally protected from impacts.
I've already accepted that I will have to deal with the rust and then find some kind of exterior overlay (plastic, diamond plating, etc) to insult the exterior surface from road debris.
The powder coating is very well done, but the underlying rust protection is apparently very weak.
Hope this helps,
Kent
94 XJ (purchased July 00)
Skids, XD9000I, Lights, Bumpers, CB/Ham, Roof Racks, ARB compressor, Duo-Optima's, 200 amp alt, and too much more to list!
These trucks rock!
