Looking for historical info ref F-100 step bumper

[John Burne]

I'm just beginning to investigate a step bumper option for F-100s and not finding much yet. I'm interested in a metal diamond plate rear step bumper that wraps around the bottom of the rear fenders and sort of fades flush into the body. I'm wondering if there was a subcontractor company that built these for Ford. I would attach a photo but can't find a good one yet. This isn't as urgent as a mechanical problem but if anyone has some info I would appreciate it. Thanks

 

[Ole Don]

Those bumpers were made by many companies all over the US. They often had the name of the manufacturer and the location displayed on them for others to see. They we put on by dealers and aftermarket companies.

 

[John Burne]

Thanks Don. I would love to find one of those bumpers but it appears my chances are slim.

 

[CarlG]

Scroll down on this link, there is a picture of one that was custom made:
http://fordofwestmemphis.blogspot.com/2009/01/fomoco-freighter.html

 

[John Burne]

Thanks Carl. That was a fun story to read. That truck certainly has some style and that bumper is a flashier version of exactly what I am looking for. I chuckled at the 61 Comet tail lights as I had a 61 Comet in high school. Think I would stay with the stock look but that is a really cool set up. The guy that did that work was quite a craftsman. Thanks again I enjoyed the article.

 

[raceron1120]

I worked at a metro Detroit Ford dealer in the early 70s, we sold dozens of those aftermarket step bumpers like you describe. They were called Sportliners. Got 'em from a local jobber but can't remember their name. I don't know if they might still be around unless in the secondary or used market like Craigslist

 

[miker98038]

Well, I saw the bumper over riders (Dagmar's as I recall). Was there a bumper there?

Kidding aside, the jeep guys around here used to bend diamond plate for the corners, etc. for the off road guys. Maybe they could build a bumper for something reasonable in cost.

 

[Dick]

Here are pics of a step bumper on a '54.
I don't think it would be hard to make one or have one made.
The uprights are just flat plate with conduit over the outside edge. They bolt to the stake pocket with the two bolts that hold the lower hinge and the chain anchor. Let me know if you'd like more photos or details.

 

[John Burne]

Thanks Guys. Good information and helpful photos. Beautiful day up here today and was lucky to put some good miles on the truck around the coast. - John