Mack truck operators need proper front-end protection. Understanding Mack truck moose bumper fitment ensures you get the right protection for your specific truck model.
Protection equipment goes by many names: moose bumper, moose guard, truck guard, grille guard, and bumper guard. HERD builds protection equipment compatible with Mack trucks and major manufacturers, including Freightliner, International, Kenworth, Peterbilt, Volvo, and Western Star.
Proper fitment matters. Guards that don’t mount correctly won’t provide adequate protection. Guards interfering with sensors compromise safety systems. Professional installation through authorized dealers ensures correct mounting and compatibility.
Understanding Protection Equipment Categories
HERD offers two main categories of front-end protection for Mack trucks.
Grille Guards: Grille guards mount to the front using two receiver brackets, providing focused defense for radiators, condensers, lights, and sensors. These guards work well for highway operations where wildlife encounters and debris strikes are primary concerns.
Truck Guards: Truck guards offer extensive coverage with larger bumpers and substantial construction. These integrate with the truck’s frame for maximum protection in demanding applications involving frequent wildlife exposure.
The right choice depends on your operational requirements and risk exposure.
HERD Grille Guard Options for Mack Trucks
HERD manufactures grille guards using 304 stainless steel construction, mounting to tow receivers.
The HERD Grille Guard 300 features 3″ round tubes engineered for maximum strength, with tapered box uprights, a Grip Latch system, and CAS compatibility. The HERD Grille Guard 200 provides 3″ round tubes with tapered box uprights for solid commercial defense.
Both models include:
- Heavy-gauge steel brackets mounting directly into tow receivers
- Grip Latch with 5-year warranty
- Gussets welded into uprights and tubes for extra strength
- Polished, satin, and black powder coat finishes
- Free freight on five or more guards with matching SKUs
Working with authorized dealers ensures proper fitment verification for your Mack model.
HERD Truck Guard Options for Mack Trucks
For maximum protection, HERD manufactures truck guards using aluminum construction.
The Defender aluminum truck guard combines aluminum with Impact Plates, featuring a 14-inch bumper and 3-inch tubes. The HERD Texas truck guard includes an 18-inch formed aluminum bumper with a redesigned Slam Latch and enhanced radar integration. The Super Road Train truck guard offers maximum protection with four-inch oversized tubes and a 16-inch Aero-style aluminum bumper.
Key benefits across all truck guards:
- Aluminum construction resisting corrosion
- Three-year warranty coverage
- Professional installation required
These guards integrate with the Mack truck frame structure for comprehensive protection.
Working with HERD Dealers for Mack Truck Fitment
HERD products are available through commercial truck dealerships. Dealers verify compatibility before ordering, provide professional installation by trained technicians, and handle warranty support through established channels.
Many Mack fleets specify HERD guards during new truck orders for day-one protection. Dealers coordinate installation with maintenance schedules to minimize downtime.
Professional Installation and Verification
Professional installation ensures proper fitment for Mack truck moose bumpers. Technicians verify the guard matches your Mack model, ensure proper alignment and torque specifications, and test all systems after installation.
Post-installation verification includes:
- The collision avoidance system function
- Camera and sensor operation
- Complete documentation for warranty
Professional installers handle all critical requirements to ensure guards function correctly.
Maintenance and Long-Term Performance
HERD protection equipment requires minimal maintenance on Mack trucks. Periodic inspection checks the mounting hardware for any loosening from road vibration. After impacts, assess the guard for structural damage and verify clearances remain proper.
Standard truck washing procedures keep guards clean. The Slam Latch and Grip Latch mechanisms require no regular maintenance beyond basic cleaning.
Getting Started with HERD Protection for Mack Trucks
Follow these steps to get proper protection for your Mack trucks:
- Assess Your Needs: Evaluate operational requirements and risk exposure
- Contact Dealers: Connect with authorized HERD dealers for Mack-specific guidance
- Verify Compatibility: Provide complete vehicle information for fitment verification
- Plan Installation: Discuss timing and coordination with your dealer
- Schedule Service: Arrange professional installation at a convenient time
Protect Your Mack Truck Investment
Proper front-end protection for Mack trucks starts with understanding fitment requirements and working with professionals. HERD offers protection solutions compatible with Mack trucks, from grille guards to heavy-duty truck guards.
Ready to protect your Mack trucks? Contact HERD to connect with authorized dealers who can verify compatibility, guide equipment selection, and schedule professional installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which HERD protection equipment fits my specific Mack truck model?
Contact authorized HERD dealers with your truck’s complete information, including year, model, and VIN. Dealers access fitment data specific to Mack trucks and can verify compatibility before ordering. HERD guards are engineered for specific truck models, and dealers understand the variations between different Mack configurations. They can confirm mounting requirements, check for any special considerations related to your truck’s equipment package, and ensure the selected guard will fit and function correctly.
What’s the difference between grille guards and truck guards for Mack truck applications?
Grille guards mount to tow receivers and provide focused protection for the grille, radiator, lights, and sensors. They’re lighter and work well for highway operations with standard wildlife exposure. Truck guards integrate with the frame structure and provide more extensive coverage with larger bumpers and substantial construction. They’re designed for operations requiring maximum protection in demanding conditions. The right choice depends on your Mack truck’s typical routes, operational environment, and the level of protection you need based on your risk exposure.
Can I install HERD protection equipment on my Mack truck myself?
While grille guards mount to tow receivers, professional installation through authorized dealers is recommended. Dealers have technicians familiar with both HERD products and Mack truck specifications who can ensure proper mounting, verify alignment, confirm collision avoidance system compatibility, and complete all necessary adjustments. Truck guards particularly require professional installation because they integrate with the frame structure and involve precise mounting requirements. Improper installation can result in reduced protection effectiveness, potential damage to truck components, or interference with safety systems.
How long does protection equipment installation take for Mack trucks?
Installation time varies based on the type of guard and your specific Mack truck model. Grille guards typically require less time than truck guards because they mount to tow receivers rather than integrating with the frame structure. Professional installers schedule installation to minimize disruption to your operations. Many dealers can coordinate installation during regular maintenance intervals, combining guard installation with other scheduled services to reduce downtime. Contact your dealer for specific timing estimates based on your truck configuration and the protection equipment you’re ordering.
What warranty coverage comes with HERD protection equipment for Mack trucks?
HERD grille guards include a 3-year warranty on the guard structure and a 5-year warranty on the Grip Latch mechanism. Truck guards carry a 3-year warranty covering materials and workmanship. These are full warranties, not prorated coverage. Warranty service is handled through the authorized dealer network, providing local support if issues arise. The warranty coverage reflects HERD’s confidence in product durability and applies to guards installed on Mack trucks when properly installed according to specifications through authorized dealers.