Where I think they can get you is if a stubby bumper is consdiered "type used as original equipment, or suitable replacement" probably stronger but not as wide. I didn't see anything in my quick search on width. So the ambiguity of the law might be in your favor if you can show you addressed the strength issue.
Follow to PC 67-175-78
" (e) Bumpers. A vehicle specified under this subchapter shall be equipped with bumpers of a type used as original equipment, or suitable replacement which is equal to or greater in strength than that provided by the vehicle manufacturer, securely attached to the chassis or frame. See 75 Pa.C.S. § 4536 (relating to bumpers)."
I'm sure it varies by local laws... In Alberta we're supposed to have front and rear bumpers extending to at least the midpoint of the tire tread. I haven't heard of any one being hassled about it yet though, seems cops here don't bother the jeep crowd for the most part
I second this. Ive been next to, in front of, and even passed cops with no doors or mirrors and have had no problem. My buddy has a beat up alero with a missing mirror and he always gets pulled over for it. Being part of the jeep community i feel safe lol
"generally" speaking the jeep community in my area is thought to be the respectful 4x4ing crowd... We are respectful of private property, avoid damaging or changing trails as much as possible and are always courteous towards others we encounter on the trail and on the road.. I think this goes a long way with law enforcement. Of course there are always those few exceptions as with anything
Keep in mind that just because someone may have one on their Jeep, has driven around with it and has never gotten a ticket for it, does not imply or infer that it is legal.
A better question would be if anyone has ever heard of someone being hassled over using a manufactured stubby bumper. I've been on truck and 4 wheel drive forums for 20+ years, and never heard that come up.
Never had an issue with my Warn stubby bumper. Had a cop approach me about it at a 'lunch in the park' type event, but only to tell me how much he liked the look!
From what I've researched (after installing mine) is that they are illegal in Illinois ("The bumper on any vehicle so modified or altered shall be at least 4.5 inches in vertical height and extend no less than the width of the respective wheel tracks outermost distance.")
I have yet to be pulled over, though.
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