2003 XLT built in 04/02?

[Jim-in-Toledo]

Okay, I'm confused.

I have a 2003 XLT according to the VIN and title, but the sticker by the drivers door says manufactured date of 04/02.
It appears I have a 2002 frame on what is supposedly a 2003 XLT.

I found out about this because I ordered a GoRhino Grill Guard, 3285B, but when my mechanic tried to install it today he found it did not fit. Upon checking everything he could think of he found the build date on the sticker by the drivers door.

Anybody ever heard of anything like this?

I spent $285.14 for the grill guard, they will accept a return, issue a refund, and not charge me a restocking fee, but want me to pay shipping, which FEDEX says will cost $165.00.

Merry Christmas to me I guess.

Helpful comments or suggestions hereby requested.

 

[2004XLT]

Which model does yours look like? Maybe they sent you the wrong adapters for the grill guard.

https://www.google.com/search?q=200...KEwjZ5-yzx4HRAhUl1oMKHZPwBPYQ_AUIBygC#imgrc=_

https://www.google.com/search?q=200...MKHZPwBPYQ_AUIBygC#tbm=isch&q=2003+expedition

 

[Jim-in-Toledo]

Hope this photo helps.

btw, it is a 4 wheel dr, mechanic just didn't put tow hooks back on till we figure out what I am going to do.

 

[Jim-in-Toledo]

Maybe they sent you the wrong adapters for the grill guard.

They sent the adapters for the 2003.
For the 2003 the adapters attach with the bumper bolts,
on the 2002 they go inside the frame,

also the grill guard itself is approx 6 inches narrower on the 2002.

 

[2004XLT]

You have a 2003 model year, build date is not really relevant because it's clearly second generation. The frames between 2002 and 2003 are definitely not interchangeable, it's a totally different design and construction. Can you put up a picture of the adapters they sent you?

 

[Jim-in-Toledo]

adapter pic below, I will have to wait till Tues afternoon to get under front end and check that out myself.

 

[Jim-in-Toledo]

Okay, mechanic is an idiot.

Bumper is bent, drivers side, causing adapter not to fit on bumper bolts.

Thanks for showing an interest 2004XLT.

 

[jeff kushner]

you can find out EXACTLY when (actual day) and what was on your truck at the actual assembly line....plug your vin in here:

https://www.etis.ford.com/vehicleRegSelector.do

jeff

 

[Jim-in-Toledo]

It fits!