smencinias

i recently bought a 2013 FX4. ive always wanted to install some external lighting (rigid, KC, etc) but i dont want to add an extra push bar/bull bar type bumper or have lights protruding from the front of my truck. i thought about installing them in the bumper "hole" but leaning towards another location....the bumper pads.
for those of you who have delt with the removal of the pads and the structure (bumper) behind them, what do you forsee as being a problem with mounting a set of flush mounted rigid type lights in the pads? i havent had time to start tearing apart just yet but wanted some advise before i get started. im thinking i might have to cut some of the bumber to recess the light housing but not sure if that would compromise the structural integrity of the bumper. if it gets too involved im just gonna scrap the idea, i dont wanna chop up my new truck too much. any thoughts or recomendations?

lewis26

iTrader: (1)

well they won't face directly forward, since the bumper pads are at an angle

smencinias

i was hoping the diffused or flood light would cover the angle problem. i also seen a website that sells "adapters" that correct the angle difference.

lewis26

iTrader: (1)

a flood light might work.

I think the adapter would look terrible and worse than just putting in the intercooler cutout.

You can also pretty easily put pods behind the grill

smencinias

i guess my original question isnt "will the lights look good?" but rather, whats behind the pad and can i cut it without affecting anything important?

texasfx2

iTrader: (1)

Had mine installed in the front bumper. 20" fits perfect. Did have to purchase and trim the ecoboost bumper pads to still maintain the license plate. Not sure if this helps at all. But it's all metal behind the bumper pads so it could be done with some cutting.

smencinias

ya, i did some poking around yesterday. think i may just have to do the bumper hole install. looks like too much metal to cut.