Billet Grilles

[JAKD-UP]

I'm looking to get a billet grille for my truck. I noticed some are made of aluminum and some of steel. Some are bolt on and some aren't. What exactly should I be looking for in a Billet grille? I know aluminum is lighter than Steel but isn't there are sut factor involved? Are bolt ons just as good as non-bolt ons? I've been looking on ebay and there are LOTS to choose from but which one do I go with? Thanks for any advice you guys can give!

[Zembonez]

Most bolt on types don't require any modification to or removal of the existing grill. They just bolt over the one that is already there. Others require you to cut out or remove the existing grille to install them. Quality varies BIG TIME. Buy a cheapie and you'll get a cheapie. CarriageWorks is one company that seems to build good stuff. I've installed a few of theirs and been happy.

 

On your Chevy, a nice bolt over polished aluminum billet would work very well.

[JAKD-UP]

So you would suggest aluminum over steel? Any reason why? I will have to look up Carriageworks and see what they offer. I agree about the cheap part...you get what you pay for these days.

[Zembonez]

So you would suggest aluminum over steel? Any reason why? I will have to look up Carriageworks and see what they offer. I agree about the cheap part...you get what you pay for these days.

In my opinion polished billet aluminum looks better than stainless steel. Stainless looks a little "gold" against typical chrome grilles. I think the aluminum blends better. I'm sure both are fine otherwise.

[s10473]

I have a Putco SS Bolt over grill on my 03. Has been on since day 1 and have had no issues with it at all. No up keep but the usual wash, and still looks like it is new.

[JAKD-UP]

I'm considering a PHAT billet grille from Precision designs. Right now they got free shipping and their prices are pretty decent. They even have pics of the grilles on the new silverados and this body style seems to go hand in hand with a billet grille.