In the market for a front winch type bumper. Curious as to what folks think about the ARB, HLC, terrafirma, etc. Pros and Cons to each. Preferably something that can be installed without welding/fab work. Looking for something that is durable but maintains more of the stock lines (i.e. not a single tube across the front)

 

I owned a ARB (sold it last week as I'm parting out my dead Discovery II)
I loved it! and if you stock front bumper is still good, they go for about $450 plus fog lights, crush cans etc.
Easly to isntall, you do need to drill 2 holes into the frame if you plan on doing winching with it. Also will need to trim front mud flaps/splash guards.
I went with the ARB because I heard the corners were built better than other brands, which is important when hitting deer and KIA's.
A little over $1,000 new including shipping

 

I have a ARB and LOVE IT!!
It is heavy, and strong.
The only downfall with any of them is that because you are going to loose the lower airdam you will lower your MPG by about 1mpg.

 

Thanks for the input, its really appreciated. Not sure why, but for whatever reason I thought the ARB was less "robust" than some of the other bumpers out there. I think I have narrowed my choice down to HLC or the ARB.

 

If you go ARB and are planing to also install a winch, do not mount the winch to the crush cans, very weak point, but to the frame with a little modification, or it will twist and move on you during hard winching, other wise they are a great looking winch.
Might also look at the RTE bumpers for an much stronger design.

 

I'm running an ARB and dig it. But, you were saying you want to keep similar factory lines?

Another bumper I saw the other day was a TJM bumper, it looked great and kept with factory styling pretty well.

One of the things I enjoy most about my ARB is the ability to simply sit on top of it while talking with buddys. A con to my bumper is how it gathers mud, especially on the fairlead/D-rings area.

 

Not a winch "bumper" per say, but if you're looking to keep factory lines like I was....Genuine Land Rover/Warn Winch Tray with A-Bar (discontinued) but still floating around Craigslist and eBay.

DSC_0198-2.jpg?t=1321897435

 

I just ordered the Tctical Rovers front inch bumper. Lighter than many of the others, yet has high clearance and full front protection.

 

I am repairing a 2000 discovery. They hit it in the front and of course cracked and broke off about half of the plastic on the driver's side. Was able to pull out the bumper but of course now have half the plastic broken off. This one has the fog lights. Any suggestions on aftermarket or reasonable replacements. Was really not expecting to pay $800 when all that I need is the plastic covering. Would rather put the money in making sure all the disco mike's suggested maintenance is completed.

 

Tactical Rovers