User avatar
Site Admin
Re: Gen 2 Offroad Bumper
Ok, forgive the uber dumb question, but how is one supposed to weld the internal ribs of the box section? You still need quite a lot of room to get the rod into the spaces assuming you weld the outer "skin" on last.
Simon Bloomer
Re: Gen 2 Offroad Bumper
Refer to my post.

"Puddle" welds.

Weld the outer (40mm ?) to the one outer cover plate.
Weld the webs to the first cover plate and (40mm ?) cover.
Mark the webs on the second outer cover plate.
Cut a few slots / drill holes in the positions of the webs. (The slots / holes now align with the webs)
Weld the second outer cover plate's perimeter to the (40mm ?)
Weld the holes / slots by puddle welds to the webs.
Grid off the excess.
Gerhard Fourie
If you want to shoot somebody, make sure you aim at his head, not your own foot.
Me
Image
User avatar
Site Admin
Re: Gen 2 Offroad Bumper
Aaah...lighbulb moment - never heard of the concept of puddle welds.... So effectively you are exposing the edge of the inner web by the slots or holes in the "skin", and then filling those holes up. Right?
Simon Bloomer
Re: Gen 2 Offroad Bumper
SimonB wrote:Aaah...lighbulb moment - never heard of the concept of puddle welds.... So effectively you are exposing the edge of the inner web by the slots or holes in the "skin", and then filling those holes up. Right?
Right!
Gerhard Fourie
If you want to shoot somebody, make sure you aim at his head, not your own foot.
Me
Image
Re: Gen 2 Offroad Bumper
I believe the correct term is slot welds or plug welds.

This also presents the opportunity of using slot-and-tab construction so that the structure jigs itself. The tabs are sized to protrude only halfway into the slot. This allows the structure to be pieced together like a jigsaw puzzle so that the slot welds can be completed. Laser cutting of piece parts is advisable for accuracy.
Gerrit Loubser Image

2003 Toyota Land Cruiser 100 VX TD

2003 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 DiD LWB A/T Gone & missed :-(

1999 Nissan Patrol 4.5E GRX M/T: Gone & missed :-(

1996 Toyota Land Cruiser 80 VX 4.5 EFI A/T: SOLD
Re: Gen 2 Offroad Bumper
I accept that as usual Gerrit knows more about mechanical issues than I do!

The slot and tab is obviously the best, but out of range for the average backyard fabricator.
Gerhard Fourie
If you want to shoot somebody, make sure you aim at his head, not your own foot.
Me
Image
Re: Gen 2 Offroad Bumper
Simon,
Remember our previous discussion about aesthetics on a bumper?

The attached photo shows ARB's bumper for the Isuzu D-Max.
See how the design 'picks up' on lines and angles of the vehicle.
Isuzu_Dmax.jpg
Based on my requirements, that is good design!
Gerhard Fourie
If you want to shoot somebody, make sure you aim at his head, not your own foot.
Me
Image
User avatar
Site Admin
Re: Gen 2 Offroad Bumper
Well I have realised my bumper project is further away than anticipated :( I am going to need some considerable practice with the welder before I am proficient enough to build a bumper. I spent all of yesterday fiddling with various bits, but am far form doing anything satisfactory.
Simon Bloomer
Re: Gen 2 Offroad Bumper
I would consider myself 'reasonably' competent with a arc welder, but if I have to build a bumper now, I would only tack the bits together and have it welded by a professional workshop.
Gerhard Fourie
If you want to shoot somebody, make sure you aim at his head, not your own foot.
Me
Image
Post Reply