CUTLASS Bumper Removal?

[RICKDIZZLE]

Question for everyone. Can the front and rear chrome bumpers be removed without removing the front or rear bumper covers? I am possibly looking to change them out, just want to see if it's gonna be a pretty quick swap...or if it's gonna entail removing a bunch. Thank you.

 

[69hurstolds]

I'd think you would risk damaging the covers, but I've never tried to do it the "fast and easy" way. I removed the cover, then the bumper. Then just reinstalled in reverse.

If you're doing it as it is, you'll either only get so far and find out you have to get the cover off anyway, or the bumper comes off, one of the two. The only way I think you'd even be close is to unbolt the reinforcement from the bumper shocks. The stud plate in the reinforcement is replaceable, so you may be able to use a deadblow plastic hammer or something similar to tap the stud plates through the bumper shock bumper mount holes. Don't break them though, as finding new ones is unobtanium darn near. Otherwise you would have to move the bumper outward about 1.5 inches or so to clear the studs. This might cause some undue stress on the cover. Taking the side marker lights loose and undoing the side cover fasteners might buy you some more flexibility, but again, I haven't tried.

I'm going on record saying although it MIGHT be possible, I wouldn't recommend it. At your own risk sort of thing.

 

[RICKDIZZLE]

I'd think you would risk damaging the covers, but I've never tried to do it the "fast and easy" way. I removed the cover, then the bumper. Then just reinstalled in reverse.

If you're doing it as it is, you'll either only get so far and find out you have to get the cover off anyway, or the bumper comes off, one of the two. The only way I think you'd even be close is to unbolt the reinforcement from the bumper shocks. The stud plate in the reinforcement is replaceable, so you may be able to use a deadblow plastic hammer or something similar to tap the stud plates through the bumper shock bumper mount holes. Don't break them though, as finding new ones is unobtanium darn near. Otherwise you would have to move the bumper outward about 1.5 inches or so to clear the studs. This might cause some undue stress on the cover. Taking the side marker lights loose and undoing the side cover fasteners might buy you some more flexibility, but again, I haven't tried.

I'm going on record saying although it MIGHT be possible, I wouldn't recommend it. At your own risk sort of thing.

Kinda what I was thinking. Thank you for confirming.

 

[383_StealthRam]

Totally agree with 69hurstolds on this, I replaced my rear bumper a couple of years ago without taking off the urethane bumper cover and it caused some damage (clear coat cracks) around the gas tank filler pocket trying to bend it enough to sneak the bumper out. If I was to do it again I would definitely take the time to pull the bumper cover, it's not that hard actually.

I've used black colored wax to hide the cracks in the clear coat and it works pretty good but wish I hadn't tried to take the shortcut.

Good luck!

 

[403Olds]

Agreed, I swapped out by bumpers years ago, it's doable with the covers on, but you risk damaging the bumper covers. Might weren't in that good of shape anyway.

 

[RICKDIZZLE]

Thanks fellas. If I go the route of fresh bumpers, I will pull the covers and not be lazy. I appreciate the honest feedback!