Quote:
Originally Posted by Kev
Failing that, getting the bumper off is quite easy - but a 2-man job to avoid scratching it. All the plumbing for the washers can stay intact if you support it, right jo?
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Correct Kev
I didn't have a 2nd man so laid a sheet on the drive and then set up objects (tool boxes I think, with wood on top, and blanket on top of that) to support the bumper so I did not need to detach the washer hoses.
To take it off is an easy job if you have an electric screwdriver/drill/driver. There are 19 bolts holding it on, including the 5 that hold the skid plate on at the bottom. They are a mix of 8mm or 10mm. Here is a link that I used when I did mine:
http://www.xoutpost.com/articles/x5/...r-removal.html
When I put it back on, some of the bolts wouldn't go back on (about 3 of them). Not sure why, wasn't that bothered - there are still 16 holding it in place
Quote:
Originally Posted by Kev
You could possibly avoid taking off the bumper if you use long enough bolts that you can reach from underneath, and get a nut and washer on. The holes are in a bit of a recessed part of the bumper so its awkward. I could reach through the hole in the mesh (hence replacing it), but it could maybe be reached also from underneath. Give it a try, put a thin screwdriver through to see if you can make contact from the other side....
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I tried this and as you say, the location of the holes is so awkward that it would have been very difficult.
When you take off the 5 bolts that secure the bottom of the skid plate, you will see that you can force your hand up behind the bumper but its extremely tight, expect to stop circulation to your wrist if you keep it there. Then to top it off, where you need to be is so high up the bumper that its very hard to reach. I am 6'7 with very long arms, hands & fingers and I gave up trying - it was quicker to remove the other 14 bolts holding the bumper on (first 5 were already off anyway) and get full access.
When you get your nuts & bolts, get some big washers - the plastic on the bumper is very soft and without a washer, your nut could easily cut into the plastic when you tighten it. I also put washers on the skid pan side to avoid the same sort of damage.
Lastly, protect your skid plate with an old sheet or similar while securing it to the bumper - I scratched it and had to repair the paint finish.
Hope that all helps you both. And remember, once you have done this, you will have something far greater than the scratched knuckles and back ache you will have picked up along the way - you will have piece of mind that your skid plate is not going any where
