I was looking at picking one of these up and starting thinking about how the bumper sits above and keeps the stock hitch. Has anyone had any experience hitting the hitch before this bumper when sliding off a rock? Is this even a concern or am I over thinking it?

What got me really thinking was looking at the LOD rear bumper and how the hitch is integrated into the bumper itself. I like how the AEV is constructed, it's light weight and single action tire carrier, but want to make sure I'm not sacrificing clearance.

I guess I can always pull my hitch off....

 

I thought about that before I got my AEV rear bumper, but decided it wasn't an issue for me. Plus, I like the way the AEV bumper wraps back around behind the rear tire and bolts back into the frame. Like you said, I can always just pull over my rear hitch if I want then there's no issue.

 

Thanks... I don't typically use my hitch either so I'll probably just pull it. Out of curiosity do you use the water tanks? How practical are they and how are you supposed to clean them? I keep picturing pull out green water after a year or two of use... lol Would be a great place to keep your whiskey though... I can see it now... shots off the bumper!!!

 

Make one hell of tailgate party central wouldn't it!! lol

Even would have been handy when I had an office in LA for the past 3 years. Whew, now I'm retired and don't have to go there any more.

No, I haven't used the tanks. Plus, you have to buy their pump kit to get the plumbing for it, as that doesn't come standard with the bumper - you just get the tanks with a plug in the bottom for each one.