How to Install a Nudge Bar on Your Isuzu MU-X

 Isuzu's MU-X has been one of the most tried-and-true utes with a simple interior and a reliable drivetrain. But like with any ute, an MU-X isn't ready for every scenario despite it being a practical and versatile vehicle. Therefore a nudge bar is a must, especially if you want to be able to drive your utility vehicle on any terrain.

Keep in mind that a nudge bar is different from a bullbar which is much larger and heavier than a nudge bar. Both go on the front end to keep you safe from impacts be it from trees, rocks, other vehicles and animals. Nudge bars are a smaller version of bullbars which means they retain the same benefits such as the ability to add accessories to them.

What to Consider with a Nudge Bar

source: rvdaily.com.au

Size

The main factor to consider is the size of the nudge bar which needs to match the dimensions of the front of your MU-X. Not every single generation MU-X is the same which is why you should take some measurements before getting a new nudge bar for MUX vehicles. This will ensure that the nudge bar can be installed on your Isuzu.

Weight

The weight of the bar is what can make or break your experience with it. Heavier nudge bars might be more protective however their weight can make the front of your Isuzu drop down a bit which is not good when you need to go over bumpy terrain or a hill. On the other hand, if the nudge bar is too light it won't be able to keep you safe from impacts, striking a balance is key here.

Design

You can go for different designs of Isuzu nudge bars too. Some come with a more pronounced bend going from one side to the other while others have a more streamlined design where the bend is smoother. This is more of a personal preference here but know that sharper angles usually make for a sturdier construction unless the material is different.

Material

Talking about materials, you can get an MUX nudge bar made of steel, aluminium or plastic. Plastic nudge bars are both the lightest and most affordable, however, they are also the least impact-resistant. What you don't have to worry about plastic bars is corrosion.

Steel nudge bars might be stronger than plastic ones, but they are also not corrosion resistant, at least not always, and are much heavier and costlier.  Aluminium Isuzu nudge bars borrow some of the benefits of both steel and plastic bars. That's because they are light yet quite strong and have much better corrosion resistance than steel bars but don't necessarily cost as much.

Fitting a Nudge Bar

Prepare

It's all about preparing yourself and your Isuzu for the task ahead in order to successfully install the nudge bar. For this installation, you need penetrating oil, screwdrivers and spanners.

Locate

What you first need to do is find the mounting points for the nudge bar on your MUX. These are usually holes in the sub-frame or bodywork, but if there aren't any you'll need to drill some yourself.

Assemble

After locating or drilling the holes, you should go ahead and assemble the bar. This can be either extremely easy or somewhat difficult depending on the design of the nudge bar. You can check the instruction manual for the nudge bar for the correct assembly process. 

Install

Fitting a nudge bar for MUX involves attaching it to the holes you located or drilled with the hardware it came with. This usually involves the use of nuts and bolts and sometimes even brackets, again depending on the design of the nudge bar. 

Adjust

Once installed, the bar needs to be adjusted which is why you don't fully tighten it straight away. Check the alignment of the bar and if it's sitting properly, tighten the bolts to the torque settings according to the instruction manual provided with the nudge bar.

Why Fit a Nudge Bar?

Protection

As long as a nudge bar complies with ADR standards, it can keep both your vehicle and yourself safe from even the harshest of impacts. With a nudge bar on you can keep the radiator and grille from getting damaged when an animal or a heavy object hits the front of your MUX. This added layer of protection helps with impact absorption and the nudge bar is airbag compatible making your driving experience even safer.

Aesthetics

Alongside making your Isuzu safer, a nudge bar also helps make it look more appealing. With different materials and finishes, you can make your MUX look more luxurious or rugged. All black nudge bars are good for the latter while chrome nudge bars for the former.

Accessories

While an MUX nudge bar is an accessory in itself, it can also provide a place for you to install additional accessories. This includes driving lights, a UHF antenna, a winch and a sand flag, all useful for off-roading.