YouTuber MyTorino loves working on his collection of old Ford vehicles – next on the list is the Westin HDX Bandit rear bumper for his Ford truck. The built-in step immediately stood out as a practical upgrade, especially for anyone who appreciates an easier reach into the bed.
The Westin HDX Rear Bumper Install
He kicked off the bumper install the right way: by printing the instructions and reading them before opening anything. We know, we know – no fun in that – but we actually DO recommend it!
Tools and Hardware Check
- He inventoried the accessory box before touching the factory bumper, making sure every part was present and undamaged.
- The instructions listed the basics: 19mm socket and wrench, 10mm and 18mm wrenches, zip ties, ratchet, and a torque wrench – all tools he already had – and you probably do, too.
This inventory first habit is a simple but important way to avoid getting stuck mid-project.
Removing the Factory Bumper and Disconnecting Wiring
MyTorino crawled under the truck to locate the mounting hardware and found what the instructions promised: six bolts per side attaching the bumper to the frame. The biggest time-saver came from how he handled the wiring – rather than fighting tight spaces, he removed the connector bracket first so he could disconnect everything more comfortably.
- He pressed the two metal clips to pop the connector assembly free.
- For stubborn connectors, he used electrical disconnect pliers to push down the locking tab cleanly without yanking on wires.
- He noted some connectors were ‘push and pull,’ while others were ‘press the button and pull straight out,’ often packed with grease.
Bolt Sizes, Stubborn Fasteners, and Old-School Leverage Tricks
- He identified key fastener sizes as he went: bumper bracket hardware at 13/16 and certain smaller bracket bolts at 13mm.
- When he couldn’t get a straight shot with power tools, he used the classic double-wrench trick – stacking wrenches to gain leverage.
- For especially tight hardware, he used an impact wrench briefly to break bolts loose, then returned to hand tools for the rest of the process.
This mix of power tools for initial breakaway torque and hand tools for finesse is a practical approach for driveway installs.
Test-Fitting the HDX Bumper and Handling the Heavy Lift Solo
MyTorino attempted the install solo even though the instructions recommended help (and so do we!). With the brackets loosely mounted first, he worked the 75 to 100 lb bumper into a close enough position and planned to fine-tune alignment afterward. He also checked tailgate clearance early so he wouldn’t torque everything down only to discover interference.
- He used an improvised setup (including a jack stand) to support and position the bumper.
- He intentionally left hardware loose at first to allow shifting and adjustment before final torque.
- He patiently worked through the final adjustments of the fitment – always expect that some tweaking will be necessary.
The Last Few Steps
To make his solo mounting alignment easier, MyTorino used a clever helper tool: bolt feeder guides/wires that slide onto bolts, letting him feed bolts through holes and pull them into position without losing them inside the bumper.
- He first tightened bolts enough to hold alignment, then planned to torque properly to spec.
- He referenced the torque callout of 50–55 ft-lbs for final tightening once everything was positioned correctly.
- After a test fit, he noted the bumper needed a small shift toward the driver’s side for perfect centering.
Wiring the License Plate Lights with Solder-and-Seal Connectors
- For the license plate lights, he used solder-and-seal connectors, because they solder and seal in one step.
- He trimmed back the loom slightly to access wires cleanly, then finished with PVC electrical tape for extra protection.
- Backup lights were planned for the next day due to time, but the bumper was installed and functional.
Westin HDX Rear Bumper: A Functional, Stylish Upgrade
The bumper was installed, aligned, and looking sharp, an immediate visual and functional upgrade. The project took MyTorino about four to five hours, mostly due to careful alignment work and the challenge of doing it alone.
Looking for quality aftermarket products for your trucks, Jeeps, or SUV? We’ve been in the business of making rugged accessories and gear since 1970. If you’re ready to upgrade your truck with a heavy-duty bumper, get in touch today or order online today.
Every product we sell, from our bumpers to our grille guards and bull bars, comes backed by a comprehensive warranty and is Tested Tough, Built To Last.
