73-81 bumpers

[1987chevyv10]

I have a few questions about putting 73-81 front and rear bumpers on my 87 4x4. I got them for really cheap at a junk yard in good condition and mine aren't so nice anymore. Should they bolt right in place or what do i have to do to make them fit? Thanks!

[meatwagon83]

i have heard the frames are different, but i am not sure how this is why you dont see cucv brush guards on 73-81s

[ray_mcavoy]

Yes, the front "frame horns" are different between 73-80 vs. 81-up.

73-80 front bumpers bolt directly to the front of the frame rails with just some small L-shaped brackets at the top. The 81-up bumpers have brackets that attach them to the front of the frame rails. With a bit of cutting and welding, the 81-up brackets could probably be adapted to fit a 73-80 front bumper though. And it would be easiest to use the 73-80 outer corner brackets if you can get them along with the bumper. I'm not sure how well the 73-80 front bumper will end up matching up to the 81-up front-end though ... I think the 73-80 front bumpers are a bit wider.

The 73-80 rear bumper should be a direct bolt-on swap as long as you can get the brackets that go with it.