Took a quick look around and didn't find anything on this.

My truck is a 98 ranger, and I just got a new bumper for it. Nothing fancy, just a standard replacement. I bought a valance panel for it, but it is an absolute struggle to get on. I got a few of the tabs in place but cannot for the life of me get the others. Is there a trick to this that I just am not aware of? Should I mount the bumper first before I try putting the valance panel on?

Thank you all for your time and advice.

 

I'm not really familiar with the 98-00 valance panels, but aftermarket parts don't have the best reputation for fitment. I would install the bumper first, that way you can attempt to flex the valance without fighting the bumper.

 

I attempted to install a new panel on my 98-00 bumper before I swapped, and even with it on the truck, it's a giant PITA. The metal chewed up the tabs before I was able to get it on. I wound up having to screw in one side.

If worse comes to worse, I've seen people run without it. Not the best look in the world, but it's doable if absolutely necessary.

In all honesty, I'd recommend just getting a new bumper. the 01-03 is put together so much better. I can't vouch for the other bumpers, though.

 

Think I'll try Fordzilla's suggestion first. If that fails, worst case scenario I shave the tabs down and stick a nut and bolt through em with some loctite 242 to hold everything in place. If the two bolts on each side don't do a good enough job holding it in place, that is. If they work fine, I won't waste my time.

But I already ordered the parts I have, and it would cost me a lot of money to return what I have, plus even more to buy a newer model bumper + fog lamps and everything else. Still, I appreciate your input and your time.

 

When I swapped mine out I had to start in the center and work back and forth left and right if that makes sense

 

Yeah, I see what you're saying. It's the approach I'm going to try next. I tried from left to right, and it didn't work out so well.

 

Ended up jury rigging the panel on. It's not the prettiest job on Earth, but it sits on there well enough that it looks alright. Good enough for me.