Here is the question...

I have spent the past month trying to come up with a front bumper that I like and I keep running into the same problem, the front cross bar is in the way. Look at these photos and take them into consideration when you answer the question:





In this version, the winch sits in front of the cross bar, I have three choices:

1) leave it where it is
2) mount it above the cross bar (no real support available)
3) remove the cross bar and mount the winch in that location

option 3 does several things, by moving the winch back towards the grill and up a little I can GREATLY increase the approach angle, I can reduce the size of the bumper, bumper weighs less and in my opinion a better looking bumper is installed.

If you are willing to remove the center support, I would provide a replacement support which would be installed PRIOR to cutting out the center support for frame integrity.

In the second photo you can see the 4xGuard skid plate installed, with this bumper modification I would be able to keep the approach angle that you see in the skid plate and the bumper would come down to that point for a continuation of protection.

What are your thoughts?