i can get a great deal on a lone star bumper/grill guard. i am concerned about the negative effects to front end parts and longevity as well as handling and milage from hanging 250 lbs of steel with the aerodynamics of a refrig on the front end . any info is welcomed

 

I am not familiar with that bumper but I have a DOR. It is about 135lbs. It has been on for about 70k. I have not noticed any drop yet at least not noticable, I haven't actually measured it lately. Mine does not porpoise (sp?) Many have upgraded the front springs to either aftermarket (though I have no dea what kind of weight rating they have). Others have upgraded to heavier stock springs I think it is the 47/48 combo that comes with the snow plow prep package and they seem to be happy with those.

As far as the aerodynamics of a fridge, well you are right there. I think I read somewhere that typical aftermarket bumpers will cost a good 1 mpg.

 

People who have mounted the massive Reunel front bumper have reportedly had to re-spring the front end. There's a guy out here with a Brushguard-less Reunel who says the front end of his 3500 dives when the brakes are applied hard. He now has air bags which he says helped a lot.

 

I've only got 30k mi. on mine and probably 25K with my bumper and have had no problems so far. The front springs weren't sagging as far as I could tell, but the bumper hangs down to protect the A/C lines and looks much better with the Superlifts(about 3k on them).