Posted 15 July 2017 - 12:46 AM
I havent posted much here but have some experience with your query. I'm going to focus on your first paragraph although it sounds as if you've pretty much decided that you will be purchasing a bumper.
Bumper: I have an ARB Sahara mounted to my '96 Dodge Ram. I like it...a lot. I installed it myself without a bunch of drama.
Winch: Warn 15k. Works well. It's a beast, slow but steady. The Smittybilt I originally bought for it didn't fit.
Lights: IPF fogs fitted into the bumper (controlled by factory fog switch) with LightForce HIDs on the deck of the bumper.
Would I do it all again? Maybe not. I'd ask myself some really hard questions about my intended use and how often I would really use the items. The HIDs (or newer LEDs) are a no-brainer for me...absolutely! But the bumper and winch brought some unanticipated issues. Weight...I've chased front spring and steering issues since the installation. Granted, I'm driving an older 1/2- ton truck not really meant for that type of load. Count on an extra 250 lbs cantilevered out over the nose of the truck. The additional expense and headache of chasing those issues over the years has been frustrating. I've NEVER used the winch to pull myself out...others, yes.
What I'm getting at is to make sure you're really going to NEED those items versus WANTING those items. Take real stock of your planned use for the majority of your intended trips. If you think you "might" need a winch someday, then maybe consider a set or two of MaxTrax instead. Cheaper and LIGHTER. If I'm just blowing hot air here and you know you're going to get them, then you're lucky. There are a ton of outfits building parts for Tundras. Too bad ARB doesn't have your particular model year, they make great products that are well tested and certified. You might want to call or email ARB USA and ask them if they have a bumper for your application in the design pipeline. CBI out of Idaho also comes to mind. Google is your friend here.
As for Warn or other high-end winches...buy once, cry once. I'd stay away from low end winches. And while I like my HIDs I'd probably opt for the newer technology of the LEDs. Again, source from proven companies even if the price point is higher. You're often paying for the additional piece of mind and customer service that goes with it.
Looking forward to whatever you decide to do with your truck. Cheers!
Richard
Richard
1996 Dodge Ram 1500 4x4, lightly lifted, ARB bumper/Warn winch, BFG AT/KO2, Snugtop shell. SOLD! But not forgotten!
2002 Chevy 2500HD XC LB 6.0L 4X4, Leer Hi-Rise shell, completely stock...for now!