The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Paint and Body Shop bumper conundrum

I must not have the original rear bumper. I don't any FRONT bumper, so I don't have anything to compare it to. But my rear bumper seems to wrap around at the corners too much because my license plate doesn't clear the bumper when I recently put on the original left-hand tailight with license plate bracket. Any thoughts out there???

The one you have on the rear is probably the front. They are different. Cecil............

How different are they? Are the bolt holes in the same location? Cause I have 2 front ones and would like to buy some brackets (or even make them), and put one on the back. thanks.

Real different. The back one has much less curve than the front. Unless you have a suburban or panel truck, those I believe used the same bumper, front and rear.
It seems original bumpers are kind of rare. I believe that is because in 51 rear bumpers were no longer standard equipment, but optional. Of course many people passed on this option and put on those aftermarket diamond plate bumpers.

grr...so much for a parts truck with a good bumper thanks

I added a rear bumper to my 56 and the license plate bracket that was on the truck wasn't original and wouldn't clear. I was lucky to have the original plate bracket which bolts in the middle behind the bumper right below the tailgate. A new light and *voila* fits perfect.... Did the 53 use the middle drop down bracket as well?? If so then perhaps that'd explain your fit prob.