some guy posted pics of an xterra with a rear tire carrier and ladder that he had someone fabricated. I was thinking of doing the same but I was wondering if there were any negatives for having your bumper fabricated instead of ordered through calmini, shrockworks or skid row. They have nice products but the quote I got was for a bumper with tire carrier, ladder, and gas tank holder. hitch too. all that for a price range of 700 to 800. Any ideas would be appreciated.

Also, what would be the use of s steel bumper besides surviving a rock attack from behind? any upgrades to the suspension needed. I already have bilsteins insatalled.

the work would be done by a well reputed 4x4 fabrication shop. They do a lot of good stuff.

As long as you are confident that the shop will do a good job and build a quality product, there should be no drawbacks. I've seen plenty of sorry-ass bumpers that people have had built for them, and I've seen plenty of bad-ass ones that they've had built or built themselves.

An aftermarket bumper w/ tire carrier offers the ability to easily carry a larger spare that would not fit in the factory location, can offer an integrated hitch and/or better clearance, include strong recovery points, mount accessories/equipment, and offer protection to the rear of the vehicle.

Depending on the weight of the bumper and spare wheel/tire, you would probably do well to get a set of add-a-leaves to support the additional/relocated weight.

would you suggest adding a add a leaf if i have a calmini rear bumper with full size 17" rim and tire?

Yeah, would be wise.

Granted the factory spare is located in the back of the X (underneath,in most cases..inside on 05+).But the xtra weight of the bumper itself will add probably 75lbs or more.So you'll deffinetly feel it..

I have a Shrockworks rear bumper sitting at the powdercoaters now and I should be taking delivery very soon.But I'll be able to answer how it feels after I get it and on..;)

I would stay away from calmini. I've seen several of their bumpers and they have problems with their welds, rust, and I've seen a couple of the tire carrier latches break while on the trail.

I would recommend anything from Shrock. Jim does great work.

Great for keeping tailgaters off your ass as well. Nothing like some kid in a Honda seeing the face of god with 1/4" steel and brake lights staring him right at eye-level. :smokin:

I like the extra recovery points, departure angle, and getting my spare out from underneath the truck. I have a 10-leaf spring pack to help compensate for the weight.