mightymikee

iTrader: (4)

Hi all,

I did check old threads but I wanted check recent experiences.

I am looking for 99 spec front bumper and Pettit has urethan version.

There are so many variations in eBay.

I am wondering if anyone had good experience with aftermarket bumpers say past two years or less. Who did you buy it from?

TIA

Dvst8

iTrader: (6)

The after market ones are all made using the same mold. They also dont have the mounting holes(only markings) for the brackets so id recommend having it professionally installed. Cant go wrong with the stock 99 spec.

mightymikee

iTrader: (4)

I read somewhere you have to transfer some hardware from the old bumper to new. What is that?

Thanks.

OneFast7

iTrader: (1)

Pettit just shipped me a fiberglass 99 spec bumper . They have both types. Should be here by Friday or Monday. I can take pics once I get it if you'd like.

David Hayes

iTrader: (6)

I have had the Pettit fiberglass 99 spec bumper on my car for over 8 years. No issues and still looks great.

mightymikee

iTrader: (4)

Anyone with urethane version?

Please do share what you get from Pettite! Thanks!

Montego

iTrader: (1)

I have a polyurethane version. No issues

I prefer it over a fiberglass one because I know I would crack it within a week.

TomU

iTrader: (11)

For some bumpers (and maybe all), the metal pieces that connect the bumper to the car need to be transferred

mightymikee

iTrader: (4)

Can I purchase that separately?

mightymikee

iTrader: (4)

Did you tweak it a lot to fit it?

OneFast7

iTrader: (1)

The reason I went with fiberglass is because I can rework the fiberglass if needed to close up gaps and repair work is easy unlike polyurethane. Also, I've seen horrible pictures of what people said was perfect fitment with the bumper and had sagging around the headlights and gaps between fender and bumper.

TomU

iTrader: (11)

Yes, but it's expensive. If you don't have them, best to find a used USDM bumper that has all the mounting hardware

ptrhahn

iTrader: (9)

The urathane does take extra care/fitment, and support in spots as noted. Not quite a factory fit, but I couldn't deal with the brick.

The fiberglass may be more durable than some by virtue of the fact that there's still a factory impact resistant lip attached to it, and it sits higher overall than some aftemarket ones... I don't know how anyone deals with aftermarket fiberglass, I'd crack that in a week.

Montego

iTrader: (1)

Actually the body shop did have to put some work into it. Nut they didn't whine too much


I guess it all depends on the body shop because mine no sagging whatsoever.



Though it isn't a good as stock, the fitment its is pretty damned good. There is only one area that its little iffy and is near one of the headlights and it is barely noticeable.

tbkonwso

iTrader: (4)

here is mine ebay version because 99 spec oem is 4 month wait from mazda japan...

pain in the butt to install, you need to measure..fit measure fit... transfer old hardware over.. cut re bar etc..

IMG_0647 by tbkonwso1, on Flickr

mightymikee

iTrader: (4)

Any close up view at the seams?

mightymikee

iTrader: (4)

So which bracket should I buy on this picture to complete the bumper swap?

OneFast7

iTrader: (1)

Got my bumper in today.. I'll post some pictures when I have time tomorrow. The fiberglass bumper version that I got isn't going to require any brackets.

thorin

...4 month wait from japan for the real deal... is that just a rumor? has anyone bought a new OEM bumper recently at all?

00SPEC

iTrader: (9)

what about the legitimate shops that carry the oem parts..?

rx7store, rp..

mightymikee

iTrader: (4)

I supppse this is what I need under the urethane bumper cover?

Montego

iTrader: (1)

If you use that particular reinforcement bar you are going to have to shave off the plate holder piece. What we all did was use the 93-98 bar and just enlarged the cutouts to allow the 99 spec combination lights to fit.

The part that you need to search is how the oil cooler duct fits into all of this. When I purchased mine from rotary extreme, chuck was kind enough to make custom oil cooler ducts to fit the new bumper. But that's not an option anymore.

Jason

iTrader: (5)

The original 99 spec bumpers have been on backorder at Mazda for the past few months. There is a shipment in transit that will be in the middle of March from what I was told.
We all get them from the same place, so its a mad scramble to get whats available.

OneFast7

iTrader: (1)

Here are a few quick pics. The fenders and bumper are not bolted down in the picture. Overall first impression, heavy. It is hand laid fiberglass. Well made and thick. Looks like its going to fit pretty good. Overall pleased.

Good luck with what ever path you choose.

mightymikee

iTrader: (4)

I want to order a set if you know you are getting them by mid March.

OneFast7, how is the hood gap?