The raw material, I had a pro weld the 3/8" tabs on this 6" c channel at work for me

Bye-bye

License plate off, wiring disconnected

Off

What a wiring mess!

Trailer wiring harness and hitch removed

I removed the Pollack plug and rewired the harness with just a 4 pin connector for my utility trailer

Paying omage to the steel gods as I prepare to cut

Steel cut to length and the tabs that will bolt to the frame have been cut

Test fit

Holes drilled for bolting to the frame, I am reusing the holes that are in the frame

I beveled the bottom for max clearance. It took a few cutting wheels and 2 sawzall blades to cut the 3/8" steel

Holes for the hitch and license plate lights

I am taking no chances, I beveled the crap out of the hole where the hitch will be

I also beveled the receiver material

I welded the backside of the receiver first

Front side after welding the back

I preheated the frontside

First weld deep in the groove

Next weld, inside and outside of groove

Then I filled it up

Ground down and ready for paint

I then added bracing to the backside of the receiver

Welded up

Here you can see the holes drilled for the license plate

Checking the fit with the hitch I use as a recovery point

I am reusing the factory license plate lights in the new bumper

Finish paint

Mounted

License plate installed

Lookin good

Massive improvement on exit angle!

Lookin sexy!