JDKane527

iTrader: (10)

Thought I'd share since I figure I'm not the only one with this issue.
I have been having the issue of a saggy front bumper, where one side hangs lower than the other. I didn't want to go with a bulky latch system or replace my bumper because it would only be a matter of time until the bumper tabs ripped through again. This was probably the most permanent and cost effective solution I came up with, as I'm sure there are many others out there with more custom fabrication and time put in. I came across the fix on an Evo forum and liked it because it was an already pieced together kit and the latch looks really subtle and blends right in. This was designed for evos, but with a little modification, it can work on other cars.

The plate mounts to the frame of the car and has the pin that the latch holds onto. The plate I was able to mount to a bolt that was already installed in the car so no drilling in the chassis was necessary. I had to cut off 1/4" off the threads because the pin was too long and was interfering with the headlights.
With it installed, I was able to mark the hole in the bumper by lining it up and pushing against the pin, where it would create a dimple in the bumper. Measure twice, and drill once. I used a unibit to drill it out to 3/4" and mounted the black latch.

Sorry I don't have any before pictures, but to give you an idea, the edge of my bumper was hanging out about 1-2" and there was a gap between the bottom of the headlight and the top of the bumper.
Don't mind the rock chip filled front bumper, it's going for repaint soon.

davyjordi

good fix! i used something sort of similar but totally hand made and it worked just as well, although it probably took me much more time than it took you using that thing. had i known about that fix at the time, i would have opted for that.

great tip.

MashinA

iTrader: (20)

nice. what does that part with the spring clip on to on the bumper??

Gville350

iTrader: (10)

I would hate to have to drill into the bumper and have that thing stick out like that. What did your bumper look like before this?

Silec

iTrader: (10)

I like this fix but $200 is a bit much in my opinion

MyIS350G

iTrader: (6)

nicely fit now
but dont know if I wanna put holes in my bumper with those pins showing

edgeucated

iTrader: (4)

This is a lot nicer than the latch system for sure, but i wonder if you would be able to get the pin color matched for a white car

smokyis350

iTrader: (21)

I am liking this solution. My bumper tabs broke and I tried JB weld but it is still saggy.

I just hate how the pins shows. Looks really weird. But I guess if you color match it, it wouldn't look as bad.

castepatri

I would hate to have to drill into the bumper and have that thing stick out like that

Sffd103

iTrader: (16)

I don't know if I like this solution bit thanks for posting.

MashinA

iTrader: (20)

i thought that was one of those plastic bumper protector things. i guess thats the bracket lol

JDKane527

iTrader: (10)

The button on the bumper is the latch that interconnects with the pin. They offer it in a billet finish, black, and polished. A billet finish could be powder coated.

The plate was mounted onto a bolt already installed in the car that mounted to the frame of the car. Drilling into the bumper is nerve wracking but as long as you measure twice and double check, it's all good.

JDKane527

iTrader: (10)

Sorry I didn't have any before pictures though. Basically the who edges of my bumper were hanging out with the outer edge about 1-2". This further relocates the bumper mounting point so it won't interfere with the tire under suspension travel.

ms2619

iTrader: (5)

i want to attemp this but don't have the guts lol

JDKane527

iTrader: (10)

Most body shops should be able to help you install it if you aren't comfortable drilling in the bumper.