While I've got my 2500 apart, I pulled off the mangled front bumper to start on a new custom piece. To put it lightly, I am shocked to see how thin the frame is where the stock mounts bolt up. I was going to cut my mounts from 3/8 plate, but looking at the frame I'm not sure that will do any good, as its bolting to such thin stock. How do some of the heavier duty aftermarket bumpers mount? Do they rely on the stock mounts or connect somewhere else?

 

from what I have seen they have there own mounting tab that matches the 3 bolts the factory has. and some of the companys have you drill out a 4th extra bolt hole. and yes they are thin.

 

if your gonna' be welding anyway - just make your own mount design and re-enforce the attachment location/area to suit . . .