Will this GoWesty Plate Steel Front Bumper fit my 1987 Vanagon 2WD without any modifications?

Yes! This bumper is designed to fit all 1980-1991 Vanagon models, including your 1987 2WD. It uses bolt-on installation with included hardware, so you won’t need any cutting or welding to get it mounted securely.

How heavy is this bumper? Will it affect my Vanagon’s fuel efficiency or performance?

Despite its heavy-duty 12-gauge plate steel build, the bumper is surprisingly lightweight thanks to its fully boxed, optimized design. While it adds some weight compared to factory bumpers, it’s minimal enough that you shouldn't notice any significant impact on fuel economy or driving performance.

I plan to do off-roading. How does this bumper improve ground clearance and protection?

Great question! This bumper features a high-clearance design that boosts your Vanagon’s approach and departure angles, making it easier to navigate rough terrain. Its tough, fully boxed steel construction also provides superior protection against minor collisions and obstacles you might encounter off-road.

Is assembly required when I receive the bumper, or does it come ready to install?

The bumper comes fully assembled out of the box. You’ll get all the mounting bolts and a detailed instruction guide, plus a demo video to walk you through the bolt-on installation. So you can install it quickly without any guesswork or extra assembly steps.

I want to mount a bike rack on the front of my Vanagon. Does this bumper support accessories like that?

Absolutely! This GoWesty bumper is compatible with front 2" receiver hitches (hitch sold separately), making it easy to add bike racks, gear trays, or other hitch-mounted accessories. Many customers have praised its ruggedness in supporting gear during travel.

Plate Steel Front Bumper on White Background

Plate Steel Front Bumper Hardware on White Background

GoWesty Plate Steel Front Bumper [Vanagon]

3/4 angle of Vanagon with Plate Steel Front Bumper

Syncro Vanagon Traveling Along Uneven Dirt Road Showcasing High Clearance Front Bumper and Front Skid Plate

Thumbnail of Plate Steel Front Bumper on White Background

Thumbnail of Plate Steel Front Bumper Hardware on White Background

Thumbnail of GoWesty Plate Steel Front Bumper [Vanagon]

Thumbnail of Close Up of Corner of Front Bumper

Thumbnail of 3/4 angle of Vanagon with Plate Steel Front Bumper

Thumbnail of Syncro Vanagon Traveling Along Uneven Dirt Road Showcasing High Clearance Front Bumper and Front Skid Plate

GoWesty Plate Steel Front Bumper [Vanagon]

Product:	BUMPER-FRONT-HC
Works With:	1980-1991
Manufacturer:	GoWesty
Restock ETA:
Availability:
Wrench Rating:	Requires some hand & power tools and minimal mechanical knowledge.

Log into your account or update the vehicle in your profile to view compatability.

After logging in or updating your vehicle, return here and refresh compatibility.

Proposition 65: This product may contain chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

Self-certified made in USA of U.S. and imported parts

Our latest iteration of the front bumper features a high-clearance design for serious off-roading! If you are tired of flimsy factory bumpers that dent in a heavy rain, or plastic end caps that shatter with the slightest bump, your day just got a whole lot better. We are very proud to introduce our own GoWesty designed, hand-built plate steel front bumper. These could very well be the last bumpers you will ever buy for your van. With their 12-gauge plate steel and ultra rigid boxed design, these bumpers are extremely tough while remaining lightweight.

We developed this front bumper to have minimal overhang in any direction to optimize ground clearance and reduce approach and departure angles. These features are especially important for off-highway environments. So if you have been looking for extra impact protection, or a new tough look for your Vanagon, our bullet proof plate steel bumpers are just the ticket.

Features:
• Light yet strong 12 gauge steel
• Fully boxed construction for ultimate strength
• Durable black hammer semi-gloss wrinkle finish powder coat
• Front 2" receiver hitch compatible* (sold separately)
• Simple bolt on installation
• Hardware, mounting brackets and detailed instructions included
• Fits all Vanagon models (2WD & 4WD) from 1980-1991

*Need a front hitch too? Our front bumper is designed to accept our Bolt-on 2" Receiver Hitch. It is strong enough to be used for gear trays, bike racks, and even be used as a solid anchor point for getting yourself pulled out of the mud!

Why buy GoWesty bumpers instead of our competitor's put-it-together-yourself "bumpers" that are so much less expensive to ship?
• GoWesty bumpers require no assembly. They arrive ready to bolt on... like a real bumper should!
• Our bumpers are ACTUALLY bumpers! They take a bump and keep on, um, bumping!
• There is simply no way a multi-piece, assemble-yourself bumper system can match the strength of a fully-welded bumper. No chance!
• Our no-holds-barred bombproof bumpers deliver real-world protection for you and your van!
• If you think it's counterintuitive for a real bumper to be light-weight and easy to ship: You're absolutely correct!
• Yes, it can be expensive to ship a GoWesty bumper set... but would you rather save on shipping or actually save your van? (And maybe your life!