Flex-fit vs. urethane bumper?
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 370
Likes: 5
From: Bradley Il.
2017 C3 of the Year Finalist
Flex-fit vs. urethane bumper?
Hi to all,
I'm new to this forum today. Looking for advise. I need a new front bumper on my '74 and I'm trying to decide witch material is best. Instalation is also a factor since I plan on doing it myself. Any help would be great!
I'm new to this forum today. Looking for advise. I need a new front bumper on my '74 and I'm trying to decide witch material is best. Instalation is also a factor since I plan on doing it myself. Any help would be great!
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 122
Likes: 0
From: Enterprise Ut
I used a flex fit on my 74. It fit fairly well, I had to trim it on one corner to get it to pull together. I think my car may have been hit at one time so that may have been the issue. If you get a flex fit get the retainer clips, they sell them for about $30 a set. Urethane might fit better, but the cost and the prep for paint is a downfall. I think the flex fit fiberglass looks better anyway. Good luck on your project
Racer
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 473
Likes: 6
From: New Port Richey FL
Most have said that a GM urethane is the way to go for a good fit. It is also the most expensive. I like the fiberglass myself, and thats what I put on my car. Hit something with any of the bumpers and your going to be getting paint work.
Racer
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 316
Likes: 1
From: Southern California
Hot topic right about now. If you want an almost sure fit as your primary objective, the OEM urethane appears to win the votes. Easy to fit and finish.
Down sides are they are the most expensive option, must have special attention for paint so that your car does not look two-toned and can't be repaired if damaged.
If you know going into it that you will have to work to make it fit, TruFlex is said to be well worth the $$$. Much cheaper than OEM, reacts to paint just like the rest of the car. Can be repaired just like the rest of the car.
Down sides are that you may need to do some fiberglass work to get it to fit. If you don't have experience, this will cost at a shop and take up some of your savings.
Both methods can be done right to get outstanding finishes (see some of the member's works of art).
I ordered the TruFlex and will have my painter finish it if I can't fit it.
Down sides are they are the most expensive option, must have special attention for paint so that your car does not look two-toned and can't be repaired if damaged.
If you know going into it that you will have to work to make it fit, TruFlex is said to be well worth the $$$. Much cheaper than OEM, reacts to paint just like the rest of the car. Can be repaired just like the rest of the car.
Down sides are that you may need to do some fiberglass work to get it to fit. If you don't have experience, this will cost at a shop and take up some of your savings.
Both methods can be done right to get outstanding finishes (see some of the member's works of art).
I ordered the TruFlex and will have my painter finish it if I can't fit it.
Safety Car
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 3,685
Likes: 202
From: Waterford Mi
If you don't mind a little fiberglass work then the Trueflex is a good option. I had to spend a couple of hours getting mine to fit but each car is different.
Bumper install
Bumper install
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 10,560
Likes: 439
From: Wellington, FL
St. Jude Donor '11 thru '25
One important point to keep in mind. If you get tapped in the rear with a fiber glass bumper, you'll have damage more than likely. Urethane is much more forgiving. 
Racer
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 456
Likes: 0
From: Forty Fort PA
It just so happens that I have one of each for the front of my 75. The urethane cover fit perfectly without a trim or adjustment to the bumper. (I was working the left front corner of the car anyway.)
I chickened out on the painting because all I could find was the flex additive for the base/clearcoat system and I want to use laquer. (I know, I know) I picked up a fiberglass front bumper at Carlisle. I started fitting the other night and worked on it some more tonight. The difference is amazing. The fiberglass is not nearly as flexible and conforming as the urethane. The upper flange is going to need work in the center and on both sides before I am done including addition of adhesive/filler on something! I still like the idea of the fiberglass and intend to see it through.
I chickened out on the painting because all I could find was the flex additive for the base/clearcoat system and I want to use laquer. (I know, I know) I picked up a fiberglass front bumper at Carlisle. I started fitting the other night and worked on it some more tonight. The difference is amazing. The fiberglass is not nearly as flexible and conforming as the urethane. The upper flange is going to need work in the center and on both sides before I am done including addition of adhesive/filler on something! I still like the idea of the fiberglass and intend to see it through.
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