Tinkerer Design FJ Front Bumper - Installation

Full installation instructions for our own FJ Cruiser front bumper, by Tinkerer Design Studio LLC. Designed and fabricated in the great state of Pennsylvania, USA!
Check out our website if you are interested in getting one: www.tinkererdesign.com.
Or follow us on Instagram or Facebook @tinkerer.design!
Quick access time stamps:
0:00 Intro
1:19 1.0 - Factory Components Removal & Preparations
9:53 2.0 - Inner Structure Install
13:04 3.0 - Outer Shell Install

[@brenan_greene]

The level of detail here is impressive man.

[@omargarsh2663]

I love how the hardware is divided into individual kits labeled for each step. Also, the video instructions seem excellent. Are you paying attention, Expedition One and Demello Offroad? This is how it's done.

[@tawaitai]

100%

[@WadeThruTheWorld]

I had the pleasure of seeing this bumper yesterday, simply amazing! Work of art, yet amazingly sturdy with High Lift access points. I watched the install video just now, best install video, period!

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Really appreciate it man!

[@TheTbss89]

Such a sick FJ

[@007redmist]

The best start to finish demo,I’ve come across. That bumper is insane.

[@GianCena407]

By far, the best looking bumper out right now!

[@killermed95]

Thank you for this install video! I just bought an FJ and this bumper is exactly what I'm looking for.

[@miketee2444]

You are on top of it. Regardless of what this kit costs I have found most don't mind paying whatever to get as near perfection as possible. Yes it's just a bumper but when off-road they are about as important as equipment gets.

[@diesel112358]

Wow! What an amazing looking product. Can't wait to order mine as soon as the reservation status opens!

[@Callsignpewpew]

Great Looking bumper. Very well thought out! Really looking forward to when ordering opens up again.

[@stokedtour]

Love the design and consideration that went into this design. It looks SO GOOD!

[@toyotatrailtrash]

I just received mine. I can’t wait for the coating to be finished so I can install it. This was the only bumper that met both structural requirements and has a classic cruiser look. My hat’s off to Kai and team at Tinkerer Design 💪🏻💪🏻

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thank you!

[@gammaboxer9765]

Beautiful bumper, looks well designed. Your video quality is top notch, thank you for taking the time to make it with such detail. Cheers

[@kidsythe]

I appreciate that this is not just 1080p but a high enough bit rate to look good. I hate low bitrate videos. here's your like and sub. heck it looks so good I might get an FJ

[@greghunter6951]

Seriously, one of the best how-to videos I have seen.

[@dennisi5969]

Definitely a well engineered piece of art

[@MrRmga420]

I don’t even own an FJ but I sat through this whole video! lol very well done. I wish all install videos were done this well.

[@rodent]

this video is so well made that I watched it completely although I don't have a FJ Cruiser, nor a offroad vehicle.

[@stevetoms9598]

Beautiful and functional design!!

[@lonesomecricket7721]

If I could I would buy it. The best bumper I have seen for the FJ. 👍🏻

[@dtrn750]

That’s it… I gotta find an FJ to buy now. That front bumper looks so good and functional

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Such amazing detail

[@minhster714]

That actually a REALLY nice bumper!

[@trikael]

Great job. Clear and concise.

[@kyle5251]

This is insane! Well done!

[@daver.2871]

Seriously legit how-to video. Well done.

[@SoySauceBase]

by far the best looking bumper i can not wait to get one,

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thanks! Reservation for next production run opens next week!

[@davidpi5770]

I don't even own a Toyota but have learned so much from your channel. BTW, one of the best installtion/how-to videos on YT!

[@ProRallyDriver]

Gorgeous!

[@davidanthonytechurnangauta4880]

Awesome setup!

[@royyang89]

Awesome video! Luv the bumper!!

[@MikeyB00o]

I must say that is one nicely thought out bumper kit and install. You need to make one for Tacomas ( 2nd gens )

[@pbc_03]

gorgeous!

[@fjnomad]

I love it 😍 it’s just out my league with the shipping

[@OscarCastillo-fl9dw]

I love it I will definitely get these for my FJ

[@jaysonyang1441]

Wow 😮 awesome installation video and what awesome designed rugged and strong 💪 even tho I’m sure I can’t afford one this was a very interesting video

[@quintano20]

I wish you guys make one for the Tacomas too. I love your guys' design. If you make this bumper for the Tacoma, I will purchase this in a heartbeat.

[@normangeron8703]

Just subscribed! From 4x4 crazy country 🌴🏄‍♀️the Philippines! Very informative channel, thanks!

[@AL-zy1zh]

wow, dont own an Fj, but this bumper looks amazing!

[@kheangnou8582]

amazing stuff!!🤩

[@ABPE92]

That thing is so badass

[@OrangeBoxxfab]

Really nicd work. I like the design.

[@user-cg7cc7zj3e]

Lucky you have one, I hope they make a new FJ or make a drastic redesign of the 4runner soon.

[@lifeofkan]

I just learned that tinkerer is in PA! 🤯

[@fernandoverduzco9247]

Well done 🔥

[@daArchitect-]

Love the video... excellent 👍

[@RaceMentally]

You make me want a FJ now.

[@jersonrecorte6709]

Wow Beautiful Bumper Good 👍

[@dongtianxia2002]

Best like always.

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Wish there was one of these custom bumpers for the 4th gen and 3rd gen 4runners

[@maxharrington6282]

love it

[@vimejiasve]

Hi from Puerto Rico, Good work, I want to see more information about long travel suspension and comparison between OEM

[@dubGgs]

Nice looking bumper 👍 hopefully you make one for a 3rd gen 4runner 🙏

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thanks! I will start getting into other vehicles eventually

[@Shodan99]

I'm a little late to the video. Awesome content by the way. Did you ever complete the follow up video about the design features and engineering behind this bumper? I would love to see that!

[@mad4760]

What brand are those round laser lights on your new bumper? Thanks.

[@4WDG]

Sick 😻

[@stay_in_adventure]

Love the design! I can already see how much thought was put into it! If I didn't have an order in queue for demello's, I would have placed a reservation! Any chances for a rear bumper with two Jerry can holders? 😋

[@TinkerersAdventure]

The rear bumper is under development. Follow us on instagram/FB @tinkerer.design to be in the loop!

[@adamhonda98]

15:28 YO lol love the light position

[@tbgtbg6311]

Sweeeeeeeet Bumper!!! Are you planning to do one for the GX 470?

[@davidprattdo]

Amazing work! Maybe you have one for the 3rd gen 4Runner/1st gen Tacoma in the works?? Also would love to see one for the Land Cruiser series!

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thanks! I'm currently focusing on the Prado 150 platforms but everything is possible!

[@JeppaCrzy]

Badass!

[@Little.R]

I have a Jeep but I love this

[@rorygrady3494]

what’s the brand of those front fender liners? they look awesome

[@coolnick160]

What round off-road lights are those? 7” or 9”, and are they Auxbeam? I just ordered this bumper, and I’m planning on replicating exactly what you’ve done- it’s perfect!

[@edmunddee6016]

I really like the design of your FJ bumper, can you design one for 2022 Gx 460?

[@subinaut]

Any plans on making one for the gx470?

[@montemorrone3852]

I wish you’d do one for the 4Runner

[@Cangluoak]

Poetic!

[@HaugenDustin]

Wow. Awesome bumper and Incredible install video!!! Do you think this bumper would fit a 4th gen 4runner??

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thanks! The inner structure should fit. But the outer shell will probably not line up well with the body

[@Mazyad99]

awesome

[@glenchang3103]

is the FJ front bumper mounting spec the same as 5th gen 4runner and 2nd gen gx460?

[@tenguronin1597]

What are the 7 inch amber round lights? 🤔

[@reallink2000]

what fender flare are those?

[@SteveNYC]

Hello, do you still have the OEM brush guard by chance?

[@garrettsmith8286]

This is my favorite design out there. Nice work. Second favorite is the classic ARB. I can't afford either! Would you sell your used brush guard that attaches to my factor bumper?

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thank you. The brush guard was already sold

[@jaypikachu6660]

I like your bumper structure design, the reinforcement brackets look stronger the ARB bumper, how your bumpers react to the air bag deploy timing?

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thanks! Great question. Unfortunately like most US based companies, I do not have the resources to lab test the crash rate yet. But it is something I want to get to. The 2 large boxes structure which the shell bolts onto are my designed crumble features, which are independent from load bearing recovery features. I tried my best to match the factory crash rate by analysis/simulation. But physical lab testing must be eventually conducted to provide a definitive answer.

[@nzradarera4600]

Hi ya Mr tinkerer can this bar mount fit the gen 4 4runner .or If you could make one it ?

[@SuperStubug]

what are the lights your running?, are those 9 inch round?

[@dorkyninja04]

Wow great looking bumper! Will you have one for a 5th gen 4runner any time soon?

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thank you! I would love to get to the 5th gen. Maybe around the end of this year.

[@mariainesgarcia3908]

one of the best looking bumper designs in my opinion. these would look sick with 8274s. would that fit? do you accept custom work for that application? thank you

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thanks! Cutting open the outer shell and the front grille should fit that tall winch.

[@rickpeterson69]

Dig the video and design of the bumper. Any plans on adapting to other Toyota platforms or you plan on sticking with the FJ?

[@TinkerersAdventure]

thanks! Yeah the next step would be 5th gen 4Runner as it can share the exact same inner structure

[@MKAK47]

Hey Kai, what size tires are you running on the FJ? Love the video

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thanks. This FJ has 37s

[@scotthsiang563]

Can u design the front bumper for 1st gen tundra as well? 😊

[@big659]

Great video, Will you be adding a bumper to the 5 Gen 4Runner?

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thanks. I hope one day!

[@edsonkidwell2522]

Very nice I like that your located in PA where abouts and how much is your bumper will it work with ARB skid plates ?

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thanks. I’m in the Lehigh Valley. Check out my website tinkererdesign.com for details. Yes it works with all skids

[@isgar2266]

That's one bad ass FJ!! Dude you talk just like Elmer Fudd.

[@calambrito07]

Does anyone know what those round spotlights are?

[@rickm4295]

Man.....Its too bad you arent a Tacoma guy. Id watch constantly, lol

[@peterpettis]

That bumper looks amazing. Do you have any plans to make a 5th gen 4Runner bumper?

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thanks! Not on the roadmap yet but I'd love to some day

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

That bumper is just so sexy

[@eri197395]

Do im Can use the Same for Lancruser Toyota 1987

[@triagearborcare6366]

What kind of lift is that!?

[@tnae12]

What would I need to do to be sponsored for one of these??

[@snowyboyq6346]

Hi, Great Bumper design... Question, how usable / strong are the front factory tie down points on the FJ and are they safe enough to recover from? Thanks for your thoughts : )

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thanks. Those have been debated over the forums. Toyota demonstrated dynamic recovery using those tie down points in their FJ Trail Team video series. So it can definitely take light duty recovery. Think light duty enough that Toyota is willing to film it as official videos. From my analysis, the loops themselves and their through welds are more than strong enough (some earlier toyota models have much smaller loops in this area so some people are mixing these up). But the dropped down radiator support cross member is not strong enough. With enough force one can buckle and bend that cross member. This is why my frame reinforcement brackets bridge this cross member to further back of the frame rail.

[@snowyboyq6346]

@@TinkerersAdventure Thanks for your reply - that makes good sense. I have seen comments about the hooks themselves being strong but I hadn't fully considered the strength of the cross member that they are attached to. I appreciate your advice and I will look at installing a frame reinforcement bracket : )

[@TheMavmaster]

I have been looking for a bumper like that for my Trails TFJ when will you have more available?

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Aiming to start another production run in March!

[@DA-pj3or]

Love your new design it should be a great success! I only have 1 critique I guess. I would of had a plug in male to female with a side port for the led lights. That way all you would do is disconnect plugins plug in adapter and have the led plugs have a female end to just plug right into it. This would eliminate all the snap T's or junctions. But other than that I really do like your new set up and will be checking it out a little more. Oh one question. Why not use large washer on all 5 bolts when mounting it to the frame?

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thank you! Yes a plug and play harness would be nice. I will consider that in a future revision. Which 5 bolts are you referring to?

[@DA-pj3or]

@@TinkerersAdventure the 5 vertical bolts that mount to the frame when looking how you bolted it down between the frame and the bumper you installed 2 washer 1 on top 1 on bottom but left out the 3 in the middle. When bolting it down ya want al frame to snug tightto the bumper without a gap. It might just be me but it might be something to look at.

[@TinkerersAdventure]

@@DA-pj3or you got the right idea. the middle 3 did not get washers because they sandwich the frame horn. The top and bottom washers are the same thickness as the frame horn. All 5 bolts clamp down to the same thickness and achieve the proper bolt pretention.

[@jerryquintana2508]

Great design what kind of weight are we looking at. Also curious about a rear bumper. Can you make it open dual or opposite of the door?

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thanks! The weight is 125 lbs with the large single hoop in the video. Working on the rear bumper design slowly. More details to come!

[@tawaitai]

@@TinkerersAdventure Can you order without the hoop, I'm guessing aluminum which is what I want cause I'm not running a winch. Do you have one designed to run without a winch?

[@TinkerersAdventure]

yes you can order without hoop. we currently do not offer a winchless design. but if there is enough interest that could be something we do in the future.

[@DA-pj3or]

Hey I just wanted to revisit this video and ask when this bumper will be available?? Also any thoughts on a rear bumper??

[@TinkerersAdventure]

I will take more orders later this month. if you haven't already, please email [e-mail] to sign up for email notification list.

[@naps__4107]

Looks beautiful ❤️ but How safe are you in a head on accident or front accident of any kind since you are removing the front safety bumper top support and crash beam... Not trying to be a downer just asking (:

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Thanks. The top support is not a structural component. It’s main function is for supporting the factory plastic bumper cover. I folded it in half by hand when I discard it. The new bumper bumper shell and winch beam serve as the new crash beam. The 2 crash cans on the inner structure, where the outer shell mounts to, serve as the main energy absorption structures

[@HarjinderSingh-pu9wg]

When you make a same bumper for are let me know I buy one.