Hi all,

Just got this super heavy duty very nicely made powder coated trailer hitch step/bumper. It came with an exceptionally nice pin lock and anti rattle shackle. It seems to fit the Defender well, at least I think.

 

The cut out stars are cute. How exactly can you step on it if the spare is directly above it? And what are you stepping to get to?

 

Here’s the product on Amazon:

 

I primarily got it so in the off chance I get bumped into in Floridas ****ty bumper to bumper traffic I won't suffer too much if any damage. Secondly, If I need to access the roof I can open the back door and stand on the step easily reaching the roof.

 

I have something similar on my Wrangler.

But I'm pretty skeptical whether or not it would help in a rear bump.

I guess if it gives enough there's a chance it would be the weak point in a gentle enough tap. But I wonder if it would also amplify force on something off center providing leverage to the hitch mounting points.

I remember years ago someone rear ended my Cherokee while I had the ball hitch still mounted. That did provide protection. Nothing happened to the Cherokee, but the ball hitch perfectly pierced their radiator. Win.