Ordered new front brackets from chevs of the 40's and a new bumper. Brackets do not fit properly. Wondering if anyone else has had issues with these. They are trying to see what the issue with them is. Brackets or bumper. Any help appreciated. Bill
Bill, I had the same problem, with after-market brackets, and an original bumper that had been straightened. I installed the brackets on the truck and was unable to get the holes lined up to the bumper properly to place the bolts, while on the truck. Worried about bending things and having something let go and scratch my new paint I tried a different approach. On the bench I loosely attached the brackets to the bumper (with no problem) and then attached the brackets to the frame (also, with no problem).
I have no idea why one method worked and the other different.
Mounted brackets to the truck then tried to mount bumper. My issue is on the ends on the ends of the bumper. The holes are not even close. It seems to me that the bracket is not bent enough on the ends.
Take everything off the truck, assemble the bumper to the brackets loosely first on the bench or floor. I predict you will be able to line up all 4 of the bolts, if it goes like it did for me. Then assemble the brackets(with the bumper) to the truck frame. You might need another pair of hands to keep things from scraping your fenders. As you tighten, the bracket will pull into the bumper narrowing that gap you are showing. Come back again later and retighten. That gap will still be there but much closer than it is now.
Yes (I think!), but just to be sure I will back to my shop tomorrow and will check the truck. I will send a follow up message, maybe with a picture. Kent
Bill, Your picture shows the correct relationship of parts. The carriage bolt goes in from the right, so that it is captured by the square hole in the bumper.
Kent, tried to assemble on work bench and still no luck. I am waiting for chevs of the 40's to get back to me. I'm sure that the two pieces, brackets, and bumper are supplied by different suppliers. I asked if bumper people have brackets, and bracket people have a bumper to check their manufacturing process but received no response. Will post what I hear from them. Bill
Well after 3 months of front bumper issues I have the job completed. I returned my new bumper, had my original straightened, milled the front mounting holes on new brackets as new, original looking bolts didn't fit in bracket holes. Holes were milled 7/16 and bolts are 1/2". I guess the lesson I learned is to use original parts! Again thanks to all who tried to assist me. Bill
