I have an opportunity to pick up a like new Westin Bull Bar for my '96 2500 for under a $100. The only problem is that it was made for a '04 2500. I checked the Westin website and they list different model numbers for each year so I am assuming there are some differences.

Is anyone familiar enough with these two different generations to know if I can make this work? I don't mind having to drill a few new holes in the bar if that is all that is called for but don't want to mess with my frame.

Thx!

 

Just one thread please.

If you are determined, you can probably make it work...... but, only *probably*..... Might want to take some measurements on your frame, and then go have a look.... I know there are some differences in the second, and third gen frames, but, exactly WHAT they are... No clue.

 

I checked online and the frame dimensions look similar. I think there might be problems based on the cosmetic differences between the two generations, however. I wrote to the folks at Westin but never got a reply...

 

Wouldn't be surprised if the shape of the bumper wasn't a problem.

 

The mounting brackets for the later model guard are quite a bit different than the 2nd gen style. You can possibly make it work, but it will depend upon your fabrication skills to make up the proper mounting brackets. I bought a used 2nd gen guard that came with 3rd gen brackets. I ended up selling the brackets some time ago on this forum and was lucky enough to obtain the part numbers for the correct upper and lower brackets for the 2nd gen bar and ordered them via Summit Racing.

 

Gotcha!

Thanks for everyone's help on this topic! Despite the great price, I decided to take a pass on this bar - I already have enough projects. I'll just keep my eyes open for the proper model.

 

That's probably the best course of action. They made tons of them and I'm sure one will pop up if you keep your eyes open. Be sure to get the two upper and two lower mounting brackets. Also, the sport model bumper is different from the standard chrome bumper - I believe the standard bumper is the most common type available.

 

Sport bumpers are only different on the 98 and up trucks, I thought. On the older trucks, it's the same as the chrome bumpers, just body colored.

 

You're right for his particular year truck - I just recalled that the Westin catalog always had a notation in their catalog for many of their their bars that stated 'except Sport'.