Are there any good write-ups on the net or anywhere in the forums (searched, couldn't find anything) about removing the stock bumper and what to do to install an aftermarket front bumper? Of course I'd leave any fibreglass prepping/painting to a shop, but I mean just the initial fitting, etc....

 

Anybody?

 

it cant be that hard..take out screw thats holding the bumper. place the new bumper and fit it how you like it. mark holes or make if its needed then put the screws back on have another person holding the bumper makes it easier too.

 

yeah thanks for the advice...I got that much but nobody has any written advice or more specifics?

 

there really isnt anything to it. ive taken my bumper off at least 20 times. takes me under 5 minutes

 

Anybody else - like where the screws are located, some precautions not to damage things, etc...

 

Well I would tell you to get a Haynes Manual
or a mazda Factory shop manual for your car..
Or you could just learn how to do it carefuly..
A Few Tips
for my FC3S i first take off my front fender wells,the plastic around the wheels protecting the fenders.
then remove all the bolts on top and behind the fender between the bumper the the front of the inside of the fender.pretty much it =)

as to prepping your new bumper or aftermarket ,hopefuly it's a nice or expensive one.they do match up better or easier.also most of them come prepped for paint,just sand and primer before the paint.
but before you do paint it put it on and make sure it fits properly..You wouldnt wanna paint it then put it on and not have it match,sometimes you have to sand a few places or add if it's not a great kit or a knock off..
Hope this helps

 

Thanks JunpoweR - that's some good info. I always forget about the Mazda manual for some reason - should be my first step :P That will help me see what the stock one looks like for uninstallation...