The 2nd Gen Dodge Ram is a highly coveted platform. However, even the toughest rigs from this generation have an Achilles’ heel: rear bumper rust. After decades of tackling trails, hauling loads, and enduring the elements, factory rear bumpers often rot out or get too beat up.
Recently, we teamed up with automotive DIY YouTuber DareDevil7442 to tackle this exact issue on a 2001 Dodge Ram. The goal? Ditch the rusty factory metal and upgrade to something rugged, functional, and great-looking: the Westin Diamondstep Rear Bumper.
Here is a step-by-step look at the installation process, some crucial tech tips for 2nd Gen Ram owners, and why this bumper is the perfect solution for reviving the back half of your truck.
The Hardware: Westin Diamondstep Bumper
When it comes to heavy-duty utility, the FEY Diamondstep series is an absolute workhorse. Available in chrome, black, or a sleek powder-coated gray (the finish chosen for this specific build), these bumpers add some serious armor to the rear of your truck, easily weighing over 60 lbs depending on the configuration. Not only does the diamond-tread step pad look aggressive, but it also provides a highly durable, slip-resistant platform when you find yourself reaching into the bed to grab your gear.
For the 2001 Dodge Ram, the bumper utilizes Westin’s specific mounting kit (Part #92240) to adapt the universal heavy-duty bumper straight to the factory frame rails. The kit comes complete with heavy-duty brackets, 19 mm grade-8 hardware, and brand-new license plate lights.
Teardown and Prep
Removing the old 2nd Gen Ram bumper is straightforward. The factory bumper is held on by three bolts on each side of the frame. After supporting the bumper with a floor jack, our installer backed the bolts out, dropping the old, rusted unit to the ground.
Tech Tip: Before tossing the old bumper, be sure to unplug your factory license plate lights and trailer wiring harness, as you’ll be routing these to the new Westin bumper.
Wiring Up the Illumination
The Westin FEY bumper comes with fresh license plate light housings, bulbs, and pigtails, requiring a quick and easy splice into the Ram’s factory wiring:
- Power: The Ram’s black and yellow wire connects to the red wire on the Westin lights for the positive power hookup.
- Ground: The Ram’s solid black wire connects to the black ground wire for the new lights.
The new light sockets utilize a simple twist-and-lock mechanism held by a silver retaining bracket, making future bulb changes incredibly fast without having to remove the entire housing.
Mounting the Bumper: An Important Tech Tip
When mounting the brackets to the frame, orientation is everything. The heavy-duty Westin brackets feature a specific bend. The curved portion of the bracket must face inward toward the center of the truck, with the mounting ears pointing downward.
Accidentally installing the brackets reversed will result in a bumper that sits too high and makes contact with the tailgate when lowered, as DareDevil discovered!
Once DareDevil flipped the brackets to their correct orientation (hanging downward with the curve facing in), the bumper seated beautifully. Using a floor jack to hold the bumper steady, he tightened down the 19 mm bolts, achieving a perfect, factory-flush 2 1/8 in gap on both sides – and the tailgate cleared easily.
Classic Dodge Ram Bumpers from Westin Automotive
The Westin FEY Diamondstep bumper completely transforms the rear profile of the 2001 Dodge Ram. It easily accommodates the factory trailer hitch, and the pre-cut utility holes in the bumper provide a perfect spot to securely mount a 7-pin trailer wiring plug.
The installation is easy for the average DIYer – you’ll only need a few basic hand tools and an afternoon in the driveway.
“I’m going to give this thing two thumbs up right here… Nice and sturdy. I’m happy with it.”
Whether you are restoring a classic 2nd Gen Ram or building a modern overlanding setup, having gear you can depend on is non-negotiable. Since 1970, Westin Automotive has been an industry-leading manufacturer of quality aftermarket products for trucks, Jeeps, and SUVs.
We’re passionate about providing the functional, great-looking products that enthusiasts demand. We back our rugged engineering with the long-lasting quality and outstanding customer service that overlanders and off-roaders have counted on for decades.
Ready to add some armor to your build? Contact us with questions, and shop Westin Automotive online to explore our full lineup and find the perfect upgrade for your vehicle.
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