The Westin Automotive HDX Grille Guard is a great addition to your truck. It is a solid accessory that enhances the style and functionality of any ride. Arthur, the driving force behind the Georgia 4Low YouTube channel, takes us through the HDX Grille Guard install process step-by-step on his 2021 Ram 2500 Heavy Duty Tradesman in the video below.
To start with, it’s best to have a small table or bench handy to rest the bumper and other components. There are also a few common tools you will need for the job:
- ½ inch drive ratchet
- 18mm wrench and socket
- Impact air drill – cordless versions may not be strong enough to remove the large bolts
The HDX Grille Guard install kit comes with allen keys, brackets and all required hardware for an easy install.
Westin HDX Grille Guard Install
Arthur’s Ram has the Tradesman package which means it does not come with parking sensors or fog lights. Step one is to remove the old bumper so you can attach the new mounting brackets. The bumper bolts will need to be removed, as well as the tow hooks, which are secured to the frame.
Once the bumper is out, you can line up the bumper brackets. These have been handily labelled with a D for the driver side, and P for the passenger’s side. Loosely screw on the retaining bolts. The L-bracket goes on next. Arthur has a neat way of checking where the rubber trim needs to be cut:
Trim-Cutting Tip: You can loosely connect the L-Bracket first, then use a paint marker to show exactly where the bracket lines up and then cut the trim precisely with a blade.
The bumper is now ready to be attached back to the truck. Once it is secure, the grille guard can be mounted on. Matching the top bolts to the correct holes is a good way to help line everything up properly.
HDX Grille Guard Review And Installation Tips
A week after the installation, Andrew gave a quick review of the HDX Grille Guard and had a few helpful installation hints, too.
- It is far easier to do this if you have an assistant who can hold one side of the bumper and grille guard, as well as keep it in place while you tighten the bolts.
- Once it is on, position the grille guard before tightening all the bolts. This will ensure that it is completely vertical and is not rubbing against any of the bodywork.
- Use the OEM bolts to secure the bumper in place when you are remounting everything
- Tighten the bolts slowly in a criss-cross pattern, this will help keep the grille guard straight and prevent damage to the vehicle
- Remember that you lose the towing hooks in the front of the vehicle as they become the mounting points for the grille. This install will also block the parking sensors if they are equipped.
Andrew mentions that the brush guard is great at protecting the grille of the truck from stone chips, road debris and wildlife. You also get a relocation bracket for the numberplate, which gives the design a finished OEM look. After a week of driving in all sorts of conditions, Andrew’s truck has seen no increase in operating temperatures and he’s glad to have something with a curved design that helps protect the bodywork, expensive plastic trim and headlights from damage.
“With the stainless steel, you get a lifetime warranty, so that’s really good!“
Andrew, Georgia 4Low
Overall, Andrew found the HDX Grille Guard to be easy to install, and suggests that people slow down, look at the instructions, examine the bumper brackets and focus on the layout, to have a hassle-free experience.
Westin Grille Guards
If you are looking for a rugged and stylish grille guard for your truck or SUV, Westin has a product to suit your needs. Just remember to take a few tips from Andrew and follow the instructions and installation videos carefully, get a friend to help, and remember to prepare a work surface beforehand.
Westin Automotive is an industry leading manufacturer of truck, Jeep and SUV accessories. We don’t just do grille guards, check out our vast range of products including nerf bars, LED lighting, and tonneau covers. Contact us for more information, and take a look at our latest product catalogs here.
