TheSamba.com :: View topic - <KRUNCH> Rear bumper pushed in. How to fix it?

Mon Apr 01, 2013 5:57 pm

That awful sound of backing into your wifes suv in the driveway on a very dark night after a very long day... dang, that sucks.

The last time it happened (...no, this would not be the first time...) her SAAB jumped out of gear and coasted slowly down the hill into the lake while I chased it. so - I guess I got lucky this time. I don't know what my problem is with backing into things...

Anyway - the rear bumper on my Carat basically got pushed in a couple inches on the passenger side, no other real damage to either car, thank God. So - does the entire fiberglass piece need to come off in order to re-align, or can it be done by just pulling out the side that got pushed in? I don't want to do any more damage, so any advice would be most appreciated!

i99

Mon Apr 01, 2013 6:16 pm

Can you post a pic of the damage?

Mon Apr 01, 2013 6:24 pm

This is a Vanagon, I am assuming. The fibreglass bumpers main portion attach to some steel bracketry on either side, where the structural mounts go into the frame sections and bolt in. The wraparound bits on the side engage some plastic clips that attach to the body, and to some more sheet metal brackets underneath.

If the fibreglass is undamaged, then you have bent the metal bracket on one side. You could try and pull it back, but you risk damage I think. Best is to remove the bumper so you can get a good look at the damage to the steel and straighten it accordingly. Two big bolts either side, and the small bits underneath on the sides. It is also possible there is damage to the f/g bumper itself where it attaches to the main steel brackets. Those bumpers are not strong at all -- mostly decoration.

RonC

Mon Apr 01, 2013 10:17 pm

dobryan wrote: Can you post a pic of the damage?

Or better yet, a video of you chasing the Saab?

Mon Apr 01, 2013 10:25 pm

If there's any repairable damage to the fiberglass I'd say 1) check around the local parts yards or the classifieds for a used bumper or 2) consult your local boatyard supply place and fix it up yourself. It takes some patience, but when done right it looks good and it should last.