Choosing a Full-Size Grille Guard For Your Pickup

Adding style to that truck can be accomplished in any number of different ways. You might choose to install a roll bar on the truck, to put a tonneau cover on it or to install a headache rack. However, one of the best options for adding style, as well as a tremendous amount of protection, is to install a full-size grille guard. You might be more familiar with the term brush guard, or push bar, but these terms all equate to the same basic thing, though individual styles will vary with each manufacturer.

How do you choose the right grille guard for your truck? What type of construction material, methods and finish should be used to create a viable choice? You will need to take care when choosing a grille guard, as the wrong choice can leave you with a product lacking durability and substance.

Choose a Custom Fit

Grille guards are not "one size fits all." In fact, you will need to ensure that you choose a style that fits your particular make and model. You will find that the same guard that fits a Dodge Dakota will not fit a Ford F-150, nor will a guard that fits a Ford Ranger fit a Toyota Tacoma.

This is because the body styles of each make and model are unique. You will need to choose a grille guard that is custom made to fit your particular model. This will ensure that the side hoops will wrap around your headlights and provide adequate protection, as well as ensuring that the central bars line up correctly with the hood and bumper lines. Failure to choose a custom fit solution will result in a subpar experience and might lead to damage to your truck, as well.

Choose the Right Manufacturing Materials

A wide range of manufacturing materials is used in the creation of grille guards. However, you should only opt for stainless steel tubing. The tubes should be TIG welded for the utmost in durability and strength, as well.

Choosing tubular steel (stainless steel with the appropriate finish) ensures that your guard can stand up to the damage and abuse that will occur through use. Any number of things can occur that will necessitate this protection, and choosing a tubular steel construction means that the guard will be there when you need it. Cheaper, inferior construction materials are prone to bending and denting in the face of damage, which can actually lead to additional damage to your vehicle, if the guard makes contact with the body.

Mounting Location and Method

In order to ensure that your grille guard mounts correctly and provides the utmost in protection, you will need to check into the mounting location and method used. A quality guard will mount directly to the frame of your truck. This helps to minimize vibrations, while still ensuring a solid mount.

You should also ensure that the mounting brackets, bolts, nuts and washers are constructed of stainless steel. Stainless steel hardware will stand the test of time and abuse much more than will cheaper options on the market, such as carbon steel.

Guard Finish

What type of finish does your grille guard have? You will find several different types. The best option is a powder-coated finish, which ensures long lasting durability and great looks. However, chromed finishes over stainless steel tubes can also be a great solution. That said, you should ensure that the finish (powder coated or chromed) comes with a lifetime warranty. If it does not have a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer, it's best to avoid it.