Euro Front Bumper Purchase from classiccarpartsvn.com

[Catbert]

Even before the recent purchase of my 1975 Euro spec CSi was finalized, I already knew I wanted to install the front bumper to accompany the CSL-look airdam already installed. I quickly discovered the replicas sold by classiccarpartsvn.com, which does business using ebay. Most comments I received before buying them were unfavorable and contradictory to those who claimed they are of good quality. So, preferring to spend $500 vs. $3000 I placed my order. The were very accommodating to sell me just the front bumper for $499. I was impressed with the good communication and hoped that would be a good sign. It was.

Yesterday, my package arrived. The box was completely wrapped in shipping tape. Upon opening it, all pieces were carefully wrapped in protective paper and then either wrapped in shrink wrap and/or bubblewrap. The finish is mirror-like. The machining is precise and beautiful. Even the rubber looked identical to OEM. Finally, the hardware, which I wasn't sure was included, is all stainless steel and machined to a high degree. Now, if it fits right I will be one happy camper.

 

[HB Chris]

Good news then! Most of their issues come from poorly fitting rear bumpers where the radius is too tight to the body and the brackets on the bumper itself are not symmetrical on both sides requiring cutting and welding. Then there is the money they stiffed Don on and won’t reply.

 

[jmackro]

Most of their issues come from poorly fitting rear bumpers where the radius is too tight to the body and the brackets on the bumper itself are not symmetrical on both sides requiring cutting and welding.

The front bumpers, being in three pieces, probably offer more adjustability than the 2-pieced rears.

Catbert:

What will you do about the brackets that attach the F bumper to the frame and connect behind the overriders? I presume these are different from what is used with the 5 mph bumpers. Do repro brackets come with the repro bumpers? Or will you need to find used ones? Can the air dam on your car accommodate bumpers, or will you need to lose that?

Incidentally, what you got from classiccarpartsvn.com aren't exactly "Euro bumpers". They're just the bumpers found on all pre-1974 e9's. The US delivery, 1974 models with those 5 mph bumpers were the exception.

 

[bavbob]

Another major issue was how easily these SS bumpers scratch so be aware.

 

[JMinPDX]

I installed a set of the Vietnamese bumpers 5 years ago. The fronts are a decent fit and do install much easier. So you should in good shape. The polished stainless looks great, the rubber fits well and it’s hard to tell the difference from these and stock. The rear bumper was the issue. Brackets did not line up with factory mounting holes and it sits a tad too high. Hopefully they’ve made some improvements in the five years since I installed them.

 

[Catbert]

The front bumpers, being in three pieces, probably offer more adjustability than the 2-pieced rears.

Catbert:

What will you do about the brackets that attach the F bumper to the frame and connect behind the overriders? I presume these are different from what is used with the 5 mph bumpers. Do repro brackets come with the repro bumpers? Or will you need to find used ones? Can the air dam on your car accommodate bumpers, or will you need to lose that?

Incidentally, what you got from classiccarpartsvn.com aren't exactly "Euro bumpers". They're just the bumpers found on all pre-1974 e9's. The US delivery, 1974 models with those 5 mph bumpers were the exception.

I purchased brackets from classiceuroparts.com. I also purchased the spacers they say is needed for '74+ E9s. The brackets were expensive enough. The two plastic bits were a king's ransome. Pay once, cry once. The brackets are of high quality and make for an OEM fitment. Yes, the bumper and air dam can be fitted together without issue as many cars are done that way as mine will soon be

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