The installation of bull bars in light trucks and four-wheel drives provides aesthetic and functional advantages. These grill guards protect the front components of the vehicle from damage resulting from low impact collisions with other vehicles, animals like cattle and kangaroos, rocks and brush.
This feature is a particularly practical addition if you commonly drive in the outback and rural areas. The bull bars increase the aesthetic value by giving the front vehicle module a tougher look. If you are thinking about fitting bull bars, here are the main factors to consider before purchasing the ideal product.
Bull Bar Style
There are different bull bar styles in the market and they are categorised according to the degree of cover offered to the vehicle. The full guard is designed to provide protection to the whole front part of the automotive so it is the most suitable for off-road applications. The bars over the headlights are placed strategically to ensure that illumination is not compromised while preventing potential breakage. There are also centre grille guards which are similar to the full alternative but do not cover the headlights.
There are other design options such as addition of skid plates to the bull bars for aesthetic enhancement. You should inquire about the available product styles from your supplier to ensure that your choice is the best. It is advisable to ensure that your preferred manufacturer complies with the Australian Standards for Motor Vehicle Frontal Protection Systems (AS4876.1). This will help you ensure that the bull bar style and type is safe and approved for the road.
Bar Materials
There are different types of materials used to manufacture bull bars and your selection will determine the total cost, level of protection and the durability of the feature. Usually, the bars are metallic tubes which are made from welded aluminium or stainless steel. The popularity of the choice is mainly attributed to the resilience and prolonged service of the metal.
The industry has advanced significantly in the recent past so you can also purchase plastic bull bars. These are significantly cheaper and safer for pedestrians and cyclists in case of an accident. The commonly used plastic materials include moulded polyethylene and strong polycarbonates.
Feature Finishes
The finishing of the bull bar will determine the visual appeal of the vehicle and the feature's durability. If you are financially limited, powder-coating is the best choice. However, you should remember that a damaged coat cannot be repaired in local shops. The expensive alternatives include chrome-plated and polished stainless steel finishes.
Learn more about your options by contacting companies like J & J Bullbars.
Share24 June 2015
Hello, my name is Elliot. I am 32 years old and I live in Perth, Australia. Welcome to my auto blog. When I purchased my car, I didn't really pay much attention to looking after it. The car was really nice, it drove well and looked good. For the first year or so, I had a great time driving around. However, I eventually began to have some problems. The engine sounded rough, the paint job looked really bad and my car just didn't seem very cool anymore. I took it to my local auto garage and they gave me some great advice about how I could care for my auto. Since then, my car and myself have both been much happier.