I helped install one and it took right about 2 hours with 2 people. It isn't rocket science.... more involved? yes... but not hard at all. Cutting (notching the frame pad, not really a "cut") and drilling were the easy part. Removing the old bumper and re looming the fog light wires was the most time consuming..... salt has been served

um... they are in a money making BUSINESS. If it takes them 3 hours and 1 minute you get charge 4 hours.

I have never done business with them but a business is a business IMO.

Point being even if it takes someone 2 days to do it... it saves you $400!

 

Thanks litteljon, I went to ok for wheels and tires and really liked the shop. Better to pay extra and have it done right. Your advice is quite helpful. Might change my mind and have them do it. I just didn't want to pay too much. It's already 1650 for the bumper /skid. Thanks...

 

8 hours! and people complain about 6 hours on installing rockers

 

you should really do this yourself. you'll learn alot about your jeep along the way.

 

Did you reuse the crush cans and use a paint to coat the drill holes? Just waiting for the paint dry properly once cutting the cans, and drilling the holes is about 1 hour. Also if it took you 4 man hours, a shop quoting 5 man hours isn't too far off.

I say do it yourself because it isn't complicated as long as you follow the step by step instructions, but the shop quote probably isn't too far off so don't think they are trying to rip you off..

 

yep, had to actually trim the crush can. We did paint the holes with flat rust reformer... dries to touch in about 3 or 4 minutes. we used the AEV instructions to the T. I understand your point and don't deny what they quote on labor.... but it really is not that big a deal.... install some PJ sliders and then come talk to me

 

About halfway though my AEV corners I decided I would never buy a cordless drill again, especially a 9 volt one.

Doing the AEV bumper just confirmed that I need a new drill before my next project since I could only drill 1 hole through the frame before charging it for a couple hours again.

My biggest reccomendation with the AEV bumper is that if you install yourself get a nicer socket set. I got some Craftsmans on sale, and they work well. Make sure you have a 5/16" allen attachment for the bumper, and get a decent drill.

Also before tightening any of the bolts on the bumper (not the winch mount, or tow hooks) get all 8 of teh stainless bolts in, and the 2 on each side in the rear. Also install your skid loosely at that time otherwise you may run into an alignment issue later on and have to undo some of the work.

 

I have an air drill and corded dewalt with unibits... must have for all things Jeep

 

So lets see the person with the fastest install says its about two hours with two people. Doesn't that equal about 4 hours if you do it yourself? I don't mean to dispute the time claim, but I do agree with others that AEV's front bumper install is not typical. I've installed the AEV bumper, winch plate, and skid and it's definately more involved than typical JK front bumpers. Doing it yourself is a good idea to save a buck. If you do want to do it than give a shop some business and help keep someone employed.

 

hmmm 16 posts all of negative tone or whining....

so you are telling me AEV charges labor by the number of techs? oh and it is not my job to keep AEV in business, but it is my job to keep food on the table for my kids