I was installing new brush guard today and I noticed on the tow hook bracket there is a little hex bolt what is it for? When i put on brush guard the left hex bolt wouldnt go in i think it stripped is it important? Also do you need to use the upper braces because i didnt get the right bolts in package to install it to the radiator mounts.

 

I read on this forum somewhere that the hex bolts are there to for some reason during assembly and don't serve a purpose after that and are not necessary. As far as your second question, I don't know. If you haven't already, try a search. Good luck.

 

The upper braces have a definite purpose. They prevent excessive vibration of the brushguard.
If you don't install them, then be prepared for the brushguard to shake, a lot !!

The small bolts on the Tow Hook brackets are for locating the brackets during assembly at the factory.
They are not needed.

 

In soviet russia hooks tow you!!!!

 

The oem grille bolts hit the braces cause the bolts have those attached washers and they wont go in. Is their another bolt I can get that will still hold the grille in and still have room to fit the braces.

 

Take one bolt out, and go to your local hardware store, Home Depot or Lowes and match it to a standard bolt.

 

For the bolts that go into the grill, I just used my grinder and made a flat spot on the washer so it would fit. you will want some of the washer still on there to hold the bracket tight.

 

Yeah, when I was first installing and saw the washer was too big I thought about just pulling off the washer then realized its purpose was to keep the grille on because its bigger then the bolt head. I was hoping to avoid the cutting of the washer to fit the brace so I figured I would call westin. What a mistake, the guy was dumber then nails and insulted me to boot saying I was installing it wrong hes never heard of such a problem. I even sent him pictures by email to show him he never got back to me cause he probably realized he didnt know what the hell he was talking about. Ill have to look into maybe a smaller washer or just grinding it.

 

Anyone have pictures of the upper brace. I have to admit, I had no idea there ever were upper bolts. I bought my OEM brushguard 2 1/2 years ago as a takeoff and never even had any idea that I was missing parts. I'm interested in seeing some pics.

 

Yeah I'm with you on this. He did reference "Westin" so maybe n ot the same style OEM that I'm guessing we share. I've looked at mine a couple times since reading this thread and I can't see where the missing parts would go.