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METALCLOAK VIDEO: How to Install: MetalCloak Front Bumper Base for the JL Wrangler & JT Gladiator

 

The MetalCloak JL Wrangler and JT Gladiator Frame-Built Front Bumper Base replaces the factory bumper with a sturdy 3/16" steel plate and a modular platform for end caps, hoops, winches, and lights. This installation guide walks through preparing, removing the stock bumper, drilling and fitting the new frame-mounted base, and attaching optional end caps and the no-winch cover plate, with torque and hardware notes to ensure a secure, rust-protected fit.

Complete Transcript with Time Stamps:

[00:00] Hey, Scott Becker here with MetalCloak. Today we're going to be installing our Frame-Built Front Bumper for the JL Wrangler.

[00:09] The combo bumper replaces the weak factory bumper with a solid 3/16" steel base and its modular design allows you to choose your end caps, hoops, and other accessories.

[00:25] Before we do the installation, let's go to metalcloakinstructions.com, print out the instructions and read completely through them.

[00:36] Once we understand what we're getting into and we're certain we have all the necessary tools, we can go start in on the installation.

[00:45] Now let's go down to the shop and get started.

[00:48] For this installation, we will be showing you how to install the end caps and no winch cover plate, which are sold separately.

[00:59] Our Jeep is already in a safe location and ready to be worked on, so we're going to unbox the contents and verify that all the parts listed on the instructions page are accounted for before we start taking apart our Jeep.

[01:17] Okay, it looks like we're good to go.

[01:20] The Frame-Built Bumper will be installed here onto the front of this Jeep.

[01:25] We'll start by using a flathead screwdriver to remove the center plug from the retaining clips and then use a flat screwdriver to pry the clips free.

[01:36] Use an 8mm socket and wrench to remove the shroud on the bottom of the bumper.

[01:43] Using an 18mm wrench and socket, disconnect the bumper from the frame.

[01:49] There are a total of 8 bolts on the backside of the bumper.

[01:54] Disconnect the light clips from the frame in preparation for the bumper removal.

[02:00] Remove the bumper.

[02:03] Remove the back plate from the frame and save all the hardware.

[02:10] Remove the brackets from the frame using a 16mm socket.

[02:16] You will not need to save the bracket, but do save all the hardware.

[02:22] Using a step bit, drill out the inside frame hole to 9/16".

[02:29] Using a step bit, drill out the upper outside bumper mount hole to 9/16".

[02:36] Important note, if you will be installing a winch, you will need to use a cutting wheel to remove a small amount from the frame on each side.

[02:48] To help prevent rust, make sure to paint any exposed metal.

[02:54] Place the new bumper up to the frame and reinstall the bracket hardware hand tight.

[03:02] Install the lower bumper mount onto the frame.

[03:07] To install the nut, you must go from underneath and inside the frame with a 3/4" wrench.

[03:16] Install the bumper brackets between the frame and bumper.

[03:21] Install hardware hand tight.

[03:24] Using a 16mm socket, fully tighten the bumper tab hardware.

[03:30] Using a 3/4" socket or wrench, fully tighten the lower bumper mount to the frame.

[03:38] Remove the front bumper bolts.

[03:41] Place the bumper cover plate onto the bumper and install all hardware hand tight.

[03:49] Install the lower cover plate hardware hand tight using a 9/16" socket or wrench.

[03:58] Remove the front bumper bolts.

[04:02] Align the end caps and install the front bumper plate hardware hand tight using a 3/4" socket.

[04:12] Using a 5/16" Allen wrench, install the end cap button head hardware.

[04:18] Tighten all the hardware.

[04:21] If you've installed the 56" light caps, reinstall the fog lights into the end caps.

[04:29] Now that the bumper's installed, install the no winch cover plate using the provided hardware.

[04:36] Now that we're done, all that's left to do is to go out and enjoy your Jeep.

[04:43] To learn more, visit us at metalcloak.com.

[04:47] MetalCloak it's your Jeep only better.

For more information about this kit CLICK HERE.