First, I searched for "light+bar" as I figured this has been discussed, but I didn't find any threads for forward-facing light bars. Second, I wish there was because I'm not thrilled with outcome here (primarily aesthetics) and this arguably isn't worthy of its own thread. However, perhaps this will spark inspiration for others (to improve upon).

Anyway I'm doing this for free for "my" non-profit for whom I volunteer. They were looking for better light output from their '00 Ram. I had this 31" Nilight bar collecting dust on my mezzanine. I had purchased it through Amazon Warehouse Deals about a year ago for ~$30, figuring eventually I'd find a use for it. Well, here's a use.

Mounting on top of the factory bumper looked best to me, but I needed solid mounts that wouldn't flex or vibrate and I had to kick it forward enough to clear the grille and allow release of the hood safety.

I quickly fabbed these brackets from flat bar and just drilled directly into the steel bumper, tapping 1/4-28

Now, had I been thinking I would have tucked the mounts under the light bar for a much cleaner look and if I used hardware that wasn't grade-8-gold it might look halfway decent. Regardless, its finished, it's solid, it was free to them and they'll be thrilled.

 

Also I purchased a basic harness from Amazon. I really liked this one because it has a round switch (easier install - just drill a hole!) and a single light that is only on when the light bar is on. So many of these inexpensive light bars come with a stupid switch that glows, say, red ALL THE TIME and then green when on.

I dropped it next to the headlamp switch here and seems to work out well.

Again, just an idea that might help others.

 

I like the switch location but me I would have mounted it in the bumper between the fog lights

 

Have you seen anyone cut that out and make it look decent? I considered trying to open up the bumper but didn't figure I could do it in the time I had. Plus, cutting into chrome....exposed raw metal edges, possible rust sticks out like a sore thumb against chrome, etc....

 

I would have upgraded the fogs or headlights than mount one period. I really don't see why anyone uses them on the street. They are good for off roading but blind oncoming traffic on the street. I found this article about light bars, Seems every state has different rules on them. Don't understand how blinding oncoming traffic is "legal" for the states that allow it?

 

yes it looks really good if done right