Bumper Approach/Departure Angles

[blueshirts]

I was recently checking the FJ approach and departure specs in comparison to Rubicons, Hummers, etc. I was surprised that the FJ specs are fairly different in comparison. They are acutally closer to that of an Xterra. I was wondering how much these specs might be improved with aftermarket bumpers installed. Anyone have any estimates of which bumpers would provide the best and worst performance in this area? I did a search on this though I got mixed results. Seems like there are lots of bumper options though I was curious what peoples experiences were.

FYI, I have had my FJ for a short period of time and have not had a chance to take it off road. Previous owner of 2 Jeep Wranglers/TJs which I have taken on off roading trips. TJ's angles seem great to me.

Jeep/H3:
Approach 40.8
Departure 37.4

FJ:

Approach 34
Departure 30

Xterra:

Angle of approach 30.5° - 33.2°
Angle of departure 27.3° - 29.4°

[1 Bored Clerk]

Any aftermarket front bumper is likely to offer an improved approach angle. (Don't buy one if it doesn't) The Departure angle is a different story. The rear most crossmember in the frame is directly behind the plastic rear bumper...not going to gain a lot of clearance there. The only place you are going to make more clearance in the rear is on the corners...maybe. Once you lift a rig and put larger tires on it, you will improve all of your angles at once.

[1 Bored Clerk]

I do wish that Toyota had paid a little more attention to rear overhang. A stubbier rear end would have been fine in my book.

[dflood75]

Yeah almost ripped my rear off yesterday. Scratched the heck out of the bottom and gouged the rr corner! Finally scratched my beauty! No pinstripes yet...