Re: New Aluminess bumper, and there is a problem....
One thing that needs to be taken into account regarding this problem, is that because the strap is attached to both the van body and the van frame (via the bumper), that the twisting action between the two, especially off-road, acts like a wrench on the bolt in the bumper. Ford E-Series frames are very flexy! The hinge side bolt is captured below with a lock nut, and therefore cannot work itself out, but the bumper side is not.
If it were my bumper design, and I had to tie into both the van body and van frame, then I would account for the movement between the two to minimize stress on the mounting points by, ideally, using a threaded rod with heim joints at either end to act as mini tie-rods or sway bar links. Heim joints would account for the offset height, as well as, any twisting action.
I think though, that the key with the current setup, is matching the mounting heights and allowing the strap to move with the flex using brass bushings and loc-tite. Consider this mounting point part of your preventative maintenance routine.
Hope that helps,
Brad
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2007 Ford 6.0 Diesel RB Wagon UJOR 6"lift-SOLD
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