Marlenstein bumper finally complete

[Marlin]

ya, im sure your bearings and axles LOVE the sand you submit them to

Bearings? Axles? I don't think my VX has those?





Actually, the dunes are what keep the rust off my undercarriage

[Ldub]

Bearings? Axles? I don't think my VX has those?

You don't think you have front bearings?...cool

[ZEUS]

Not that my opinion matters, but I actually like some parts of your bumper, and some parts, I don't. I like the overall look of the bumper... for a Jeep with some bulk and bling, but not on the VX. I don't like the use of sheet metal on a basher bumper, no matter what rig. I like the rhino liner but not as is with the rest of the VX. I like the idea of the lights you chose, but they should be recessed in an application like this, imo.

Did you really gain anything on the approach angle? You most definitely lost clearance in regard to tight trails at your corners.

Now, as for your fab skills... I think you did a pretty good job at your first attempt. The only way to get better is to see where you are at, so I do commend you on that. I, personally, would look at this bumper as a learning experience and nothing more. I would have already started working on an improved version of the concept instead of coating this one (if I had money). I like that you made an experiment like this easily removable in a fashion that allows for options, like other bumpers, or even a fishing pole mount and tackle storage system for beach fishing.

I give you 2.5 out of 5 stars, as is.

[Marlin]

Thanks for the actual constructive criticism. I am working on modding the bumper to bring it about 4" higher than it is now. After I tie off to a tree and yank this weekend, it may be back to the drawing board anyway But I have to admit, every time I slow down at a light, I think "What if I don't stop?"

[CrnCnn]

what does that thing weigh anyhow

[ZEUS]

I figured you would be tired of reading about my gag reflex to your bumper. So I figured I would be nicer! In my own defense, it's hard to give constructive criticism during the construction process of something that should not continue being constructed...

I thought of you while I was in Moab this weekend. I saw an FJ at the Shell in town. The FJ had a custom rear bumper in process - it even looked like he took it to Moab to test it. Pretty cool though; I wanted to take pics but he left before I could get to it. Round tube steel mixed with sheet/plate and those speed holes or whatever they are called. Looked much better than that stupid original design and it held spare fuel cans, a spare tire, and bikes! I could see the design concept being duplicated for a VX. It was the only cool looking thing on that FJ tho, so it did look out of place, but it wasn't even painted yet either... he is now known as F.rankenJ.ein!

[nfpgasmask]

All I know is that I can't wait to get my shop completed. The way things are going though its gonna be months.

Bart