Is Cutting or Trimming Required to Install the Westin Bull Bar # 32-3575 on a 2013 Ford Explorer

Question

Question:

Hi John, i don't know if this makes a difference but my 2013 Explorer is a Canadian model, this is probably why the front valence is different, is there a part number for Canadian models, i am including a picture from a different angle so you can see that my Explorer has a towing option that provides an opening in the lower portion of the valence on the passenger side for cooling purposes through a channel that is fixed on the cradle by 3 retaining wingnuts, so i don't know if that channel will be in the way, please advise,

asked by: S. J

0

Expert Reply:

The installation instructions do not call for any cutting or trimming to install the Westin Ultimate Bull Bar, # 32-3575, on your 2013 Ford Explorer XLT 4x4, however, it appears that the Explorer they used for a test fit did not have the lower valence like your Explorer has.

We have not had a chance to install a grille guard on a Ford Explorer yet, but based on the photos in the installation instructions, there may be a chance that you will have to notch out part of the lower valance to accommodate the mounting arms of the Bull Bar. My contact at Westin could not confirm if the lower valence on your Explorer would have to be trimmed or not.

I have attached a photo from the installation instructions showing the bull bar installed and its proximity to the bottom of the front bumper fascia.

expert reply by: John H

0

click to enlarge

S. J.

10/23/2013

Hi John, i don't know if this makes a difference but my 2013 Explorer is a Canadian model, this is probably why the front valence is different, is there a part number for Canadian models, i am including a picture from a different angle so you can see that my Explorer has a towing option that provides an opening in the lower portion of the valence on the passenger side for cooling purposes through a channel that is fixed on the cradle by 3 retaining wingnuts, so i don't know if that channel will be in the way, please advise,

John H.

10/23/2013

I spoke with my contact at Westin and he said they have no exclusions for the Ultimate Bull Bar, # 32-3575, for the Canadian models of the Ford Explorer. I can tell you that the only part of the bull bar that makes contact with the vehicle is the mounting brackets. They attach to the underside of the frame rail just behind the front bumper. There will be two bolt holes in the center of the frame rail where the mounting brackets will attach. I recommend checking to see if the channel or wingnuts interfere with that location. If you would like to send me a picture of that location, I may be able to determine if they will interfere or not.