When I started my TJ build-up project, I wanted an ARB bumper but settled for another Australian company called TJM. Little did I know that I would be in for a big surprise when I upgraded to a winch. The bumper was cool because it had an integrated winch area hidden in the bumper. So, naturally, I figured this would be an asset when I bought a winch. Well, I went to buy the winch and found out that I needed a winch mount for "inside" the bumper ($180) AND a winch plate ($150) to hold the winch to my Jeep. After getting a little upset, I decided to purchase the 2 pieces and get the winch. Well, not only did I find out I had to buy the 2 pieces but the really bad news was the bumper ONLY would accept the M series winches. I knew I wanted a Warn 9.5ti, so this was a major drawback. I must hand it to the guys at Desert Rat here in Tucson, AZ. They added up the cost of a new ARB winch bumper and the Warn 9.5ti winch plus installation. Basically, it was cheaper to go with the ARB set-up since the winch just dropped in easily. I am very pleased with the ARB set-up. The ARB bumper is better made and really cleans up the front end. The TJM bumper stuck out almost 3-4 inches from the frame where the ARB hugs my Jeep. The only drawback (besides being out $600 for the TJM bumper) was that the TJM had "bumperettes" built into the design. The ARB does not. Thus you must be very careful not to bump anything or push anything with the ARB. Still, the money was well worth the changeover and I would recommend this set-up to anyone looking for both a DAMN fine bumper and a good winch. Here are some pics. The first one is the TJM, the second is the ARB:
