I currently have an Alluminium bulbar on my 2000 Rodeo which has served me
well over the last 7 years. It is still in good condition with no dints. We also have a portable 10,000lb electric winch which we store in the boot and get out as req’d.
Long story short. I am looking to get a winch bullbar for 1) less hassle when I need to use the winch and 2) better balance of weight across the car when fully loaded on trips.
What I am looking for in a bullbar is
1) strong and not likely to bend or break under the strain of a difficult winching situation
2) maintain good entry angles and ground clearance
3) have mounting points for spot lights and 2 antennas
4) mount solidly so there is not any rattles, etc on corrugated roads
5) not be ugly
So far I have priced an Ironman Bar at $1080 and a TJM bar at $1600. Neither had photos on what the bar would look like on a rodeo so purchasing is solely based on a generic bar they have in the store which makes it hard to answer my questions above.
Fitting was likely to be around $300. I would get them to fit the bar (mainly for warranty aspect) and I would fit lights and antennas as
well as remove the old bar. I Imagine the ARB bar would be $1600+ plus fitting.
What experience have others had with these brands or others that I could consider? Are there other factors I should also consider?
On the dollars side of things the Ironman bar is a lot cheaper, how does it compare to the others on quality. I would be prepared to pay the extra amount for a TJM or ARB, etc if the difference is significant, but if they are all the same and it’s just the brand name I am more than happy to put that money toward my next trip. For me it’s not so much about the brand as having a quality product that wont let me done when I need it.
Does anyone have any photos of these bullbars, especially on a Rodeo?
Thanks for your suggestions and help.
Geoff