Peterbilt 379 Grille Guards
FAQs - Peterbilt 379 Grille Guards
1. What does a grille guard do? It protects your front end grille, headlights, and radiator from damage caused by road debris, wildlife, or low-speed impacts. 2. Will this fit my Peterbilt 379? Yep most grille guards in this category are designed specifically for the 379. Just double-check the mounting setup and bumper compatibility. 3. Are they hard to install? Not really. Most bolt onto your frame or bumper mounts using included hardware. Basic tools and a helping hand are usually all you need. 4. What materials are they made of? Mostly polished stainless steel or heavy-duty aluminum. Both are corrosion-resistant and built for commercial use. 5. Can I still open the hood with a grille guard installed? If you're using a bumper flip kit, yes. Some guards are tilt-compatible or fold down for hood access. Check the product details before you order. 6. Do they interfere with lights or sensors? Nope. Most are designed with clearance for bumper lights, turn signals, and even fog lights. Some have pre-drilled tabs for mounting extra lights, too. 7. Can I add accessories to my grille guard? Yes many have spots for light bars, fog lights, or even tool holders. Just make sure the guard is rated to hold the extra weight. 8. Are grille guards worth it? Definitely. One minor impact could cost thousands in front-end repairs. Some insurance companies offer a discount for drivers with grille guards. 9. Will it affect airflow to my radiator? Not if it's properly designed. Most guards are open-frame styles that allow plenty of airflow while still offering protection.Frequently Asked Questions About Peterbilt 379 Grille Guards
What years do these grille guards fit, and will they work with my specific 379 model?
Our Peterbilt 379 grille guards are designed to fit model years 1987-2007. However, compatibility can vary based on your truck's specific configuration. Extended hood models require different mounting brackets than standard hood models. If your truck has aftermarket bumpers or custom modifications, you'll need to verify mounting point measurements. We recommend checking your VIN-specific details or calling our tech support at 1-888-875-7787 with your truck's year and hood type for exact fitment confirmation.
What's the difference between aluminum and stainless steel grille guards, and which should I choose?
Aluminum grille guards typically weigh 40-60% less than stainless steel options, making them ideal if weight is a concern for your application. They resist corrosion well but may show scratches more easily. Stainless steel guards offer superior impact resistance and maintain their polish longer, though they require regular cleaning to prevent water spots and road film buildup. For trucks in harsh winter conditions with heavy salt exposure, stainless steel with a mirror finish provides the best long-term durability. Aluminum works excellently for show trucks or lighter-duty applications where weight savings matter.
How difficult is the installation, and what tools will I need?
Installation typically takes 2-4 hours and requires basic mechanical skills. You'll need a socket set (typically 3/4" and 7/8"), drill with metal bits for any custom mounting, and a torque wrench to ensure proper tightening to 80-100 ft-lbs on frame mounts. Most guards use existing frame holes, but some models require drilling 2-4 additional mounting points. The most challenging part is usually aligning the guard while supporting its weight - having a second person helps significantly. Detailed instructions come with each guard, and installation videos are available on our YouTube channel.
Will a grille guard affect my headlight beam pattern or cooling system performance?
Properly designed Peterbilt 379 grille guards maintain adequate airflow to the radiator and won't impact cooling when installed correctly. Our guards feature strategic bar spacing that preserves 85-90% of the original grille opening. Regarding headlights, the horizontal bars are positioned to avoid interference with your beam pattern. However, auxiliary lights mounted on the guard should be aimed properly to prevent glare. Some drivers report a 1-2 MPG decrease in fuel economy at highway speeds due to added wind resistance, particularly with heavier steel models.
What finish options are available, and how do I maintain them?
We offer three primary finishes: mirror-polished stainless, brushed stainless, and polished aluminum. Mirror-polished requires weekly cleaning with stainless polish to maintain its showroom shine. Brushed finishes hide minor scratches better and need less frequent polishing - monthly cleaning with mild soap suffices. Polished aluminum should be treated with aluminum polish every 2-3 weeks to prevent oxidation. For all finishes, avoid harsh chemicals and automated truck washes with recycled water, which can cause pitting. Winter road salt should be rinsed off within 24-48 hours to prevent corrosion around mounting points.