Thanks for the info and advice, didn't know ARB mentions it in their FAQ, will go read over that now.

 

I should also mention that ARB added some support to the "wings" (where the bumper sweeps back at the sides of the vehicle) in the version I have (03-04). I haven't seen the previous version up close but, again, it all seems pretty sturdy on mine and that is what I was told, for what it is worth. The crush cans I got with the bumper are extraordinarily heavy compared to the original ones. I bet my two crush cans that came with the ARB bumper weigh more than the entire stock bumper with cans and fogs. They wouldn't crush easily, IMHO.

I've said before that I considered the TJM and some others too, and while they may be more sturdy (I don't know...) this one is serious kit. My family calls it the Kangaroo Killer, and a deer weighs less (deer are my primary concern).

 

Just adding to my old thread here. I got a Badlands 12000 pound winch yesterday at Harbor Freight and installed it with just a few issues. Works great.