Owl Adax Pro Installation
How to install the Owl Adax Pro Bumper on your Sprinter Van, 2015+ Mercedes Sprinter (4x4, AWD, 2WD).
Owl Vans Adax Front Bumper Installation Guide
Product Overview
The Owl Vans Adax Front Bumper is designed to provide superior front-end protection, increased airflow, and full winch compatibility. This installation replaces the factory bumper and adds robust structural mounting components for off-road durability and accessory integration.
Estimated Installation Time: 5–8 hours
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced (professional installation recommended)
Follow along with our installation video for detailed, visual instructions.
Required Tools
- Torx Drivers: T25 and T30
- Metric Sockets and Wrenches: 13mm, 15mm, 18mm
- Clip Removal Tool
- Magnetic Parts Tray
- Tape Measure and Permanent Marker (Sharpie)
- Blue Painter’s Tape
- Pneumatic Air Saw, Oscillating Saw, or Fine-Tooth Hacksaw
- Safety Glasses and Gloves
- Optional: Edge Trim for Finishing the Cut Line
1. Vehicle Preparation
- Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Disconnect the negative terminal of the vehicle’s battery.
- Open the hood and inspect for any aftermarket accessories or bumpers that could interfere with removal.
- Remove all accessories before beginning installation.
2. Remove the Factory Grille
- Open the hood and remove the three Torx T25 screws along the top edge of the grille.

- Release the six retaining clips securing the grille to the bumper. Use light pressure to avoid breaking the plastic.


- If equipped with a front camera, disconnect the camera harness.
- Pull the grille outward and set it aside on a clean surface.
3. Remove the Factory Bumper Cover
- Locate and remove the two Torx T30 screws—one on each side of the bumper cover.

- Using a clip removal tool, remove six body clips per side (twelve total) that attach the bumper cover to the fender liners.

- Pull outward on both sides of the bumper cover to release it.
- Disconnect the fog light and front parking sensor harnesses (if equipped).
- Once unplugged, pull the bumper cover straight off and set it aside.
4. Remove Radar Sensor and Bracket
- Locate the radar sensor housing behind the removed bumper cover.
- Remove the two Torx T25 screws securing the upper portion of the radar box.

- Disconnect the radar sensor wiring harness by pressing the side tabs and pulling downward.

- Remove the two additional T25 screws securing the radar bracket, and take the entire assembly off.
- Store the radar sensor safely to prevent damage.
5. Remove Factory Bumper Supports and Hardware
- Detach any wiring harnesses clipped to the upper bumper support.
- Remove four 13mm bolts per side (eight total) from the upper bumper support.

- Remove two 13mm bolts per side (four total) from the lower support bracket.

- Remove the lower plastic shroud between the supports.
- Using an 18mm wrench and socket, remove the two horizontal bolts and one vertical bolt per side that secure the overrun brackets.
- Set all factory hardware aside—some bolts will be reused.
6. Install Frame Horns
- Identify the left and right frame horns. The outward-angled edge of each horn should face away from the vehicle centerline.
- Mount each frame horn to the vehicle using the original upper bumper support bolts. Should be the same two bolts removed earlier.

- Do not fully tighten yet—leave slightly loose for later alignment.
7. Install Support Brackets
- Attach the small secondary support brackets to each frame horn.
- Each bracket uses two bolts on the frame horn and one bolt into the vehicle’s frame rail.

- Leave hardware loose until the winch cradle is installed.
8. Install Winch Cradle
- Position the winch cradle between the frame horns.
- Insert two bolts per side (four total)—bolt heads facing the cradle, nuts on the frame side.

- Align the cradle so all edges sit flush against the frame horns.
- Tighten all hardware securely while holding the cradle in position (Hardware Bag #6).
- Once secured, the winch can be mounted.
- Example: Warn Zeon 12-S Platinum (12,000 lbs, Bluetooth remote).
- Any winch with a standard bolt pattern will fit the cradle.
- Example: Warn Zeon 12-S Platinum (12,000 lbs, Bluetooth remote).
9. Tighten Frame Horns
- Once the winch cradle is installed and centered, tighten down the frame horns.
- Start with the four 13mm bolts on the front side, then move to the sides.
- Tighten the two top 18mm bolts (one on each side of the frame rail), then the bottom 15mm bolts.
- Repeat this tightening sequence on both sides to ensure even alignment.
10. Install Radar Sensor Assembly
For 2025 and Newer Vans
- Place the radar sensor directly into the housing cavity.
- Use the three self-tapping screws (included in the kit) to secure the sensor through the lower studs.
- Tighten evenly until the sensor is firmly held in place.

For Pre-2025 Vans
- Insert the parking sensor into the provided mounting pocket.
- Place the metal mounting bracket behind the sensor.
- Position the X-shaped bracket over the top of the sensor.
- Insert four bolts through the corners and tighten evenly.

11. Install Parking Sensor Housings
- If your van is equipped with parking sensors, locate the sensor housings (3M-backed pieces).
- Peel the 3M backing and stick it to the backside of the bumper fascia.

- Note: The main fascia sensors may require slight trimming.
- Trim the outer corner edge until the housing sits flush.
- Test-fit before applying adhesive.
- Trim the outer corner edge until the housing sits flush.
- Remove the sensor from its harness, insert it into the housing, then press the entire housing into place.
- This ensures the sensor is perfectly aligned and prevents false readings.
12. Install Radar Sensor Housing into Fascia
- After preparing sensors, install the radar sensor housing into the fascia.
- Use two bolts with washers (from Hardware Bag #2) to secure from the top.
- Leave slightly loose to allow alignment once the fascia is mounted on the van.
13. Install Air Ducts
- Before placing the fascia, loosely install the air ducts between the winch and frame.
- There are two ducts—they are side-specific.
- The portion that juts outward should face the outside of the vehicle toward the frame rail.
- Air should flow into the winch cradle.
- The portion that juts outward should face the outside of the vehicle toward the frame rail.
- Each side uses three bolts (six total).

14. Assemble the Main Bumper Section
- Align the main bumper fascia with the frame horns.
- Loosely install:
- Four bolts across the top of the bull bar
- Six bolts across the front face of the bumper
- Two bolts for the fairlead plate
- Four bolts across the top of the bull bar
- Hardware reference:
- Bolts: Hardware Bag #3
- Washers: Hardware Bag #2
- Nuts: Hardware Bag #5
- Bolts: Hardware Bag #3
- Once alignment is verified, tighten all bolts—start with the bull bar, then fascia bolts.

15. Prepare and Install Outer Wing Sections
- Insert the parking sensor housings vertically into the wing pieces.
- Attach each outer wing section to the frame horn using five bolts and washers per side.

- Route the wiring harness through the circular access hole in each wing for later connection.
- Use hardware from Bags #2 and #3.
16. Trim the Factory Plastic Bumper Cover
Measurements
- From the top outer corner of the bumper: measure straight down 17.25"–17.5" on both sides. Make a mark there.
- From the center inner corner near the license plate area: measure straight down 17.25"–17.5" on both sides.
- For U.S.-style license plates (12 1/8" wide): mark center at 6 1/16". For EU, find the center and measure 21" outward from the center on both sides. This bottom cut should be roughly aligned with the stock bumper's groove.
- From that point, you will cut directly up to the bumper groove, shown in the graphic below, then along the groove over to the grill.

- Reference the following picture for grill cutting. The image shows the back side of the grill.

- For more in-depth details on how to cut, watch our install video at the 11:55 mark.
Important Cutting Tips
- Use blue painter’s tape to create a clean, straight cutting line.
- Cut along the lower edge of the tape with your preferred saw.
- Trim gradually for precise fitment—remove small amounts at a time.
- Stay forward of seams that support the radar bracket.
- Always wear safety glasses and gloves.
17. Test Fit and Final Trim
- Carefully test-fit the trimmed bumper cover onto the vehicle.
- Check clearance around the frame horns and fascia.
- Maintain roughly 1 cm of space between the bumper cover and fascia.
- Adjust as necessary for clean fitment.
- Once satisfied, remove the cover and clean all edges.
18. Install Center and Outer Wing Assemblies
- Position the center wing section and secure with four bolts (Hardware Bag #3) using washers.
- Use four longer bolts (Hardware Bag #4) for the rear section, attaching it to the frame horns.
- Mount each outer wing assembly using six bolts each:
- Four outer bolts attach to pre-threaded holes.
- Two inner bolts attach to the center wing section.
- Four outer bolts attach to pre-threaded holes.
- Trim the forward-facing flap of each fender liner along the factory seam for fitment.
19. Final Assembly and Optional Components
- Tighten all hardware to factory torque specifications.
- If installing a skid plate, attach its front edge with four 25mm bolts along the lower frame horns.
- Apply edge trim along the factory bumper’s cut edge for a clean look.
- Reinstall the factory bumper cover, reconnect all harnesses and sensors, and ensure proper routing.
- Reinstall the grille using the three T25 screws and verify all clips and fasteners are seated.
20. Final Inspection
- Confirm all bolts are tightened to spec.
- Verify alignment between the bumper, wings, and body panels.
- Check for any interference with the fenders.
- Reconnect the vehicle battery.
- Test all lighting, radar, and parking sensors for proper operation.
Installation Complete
Your Owl Vans Adax Front Bumper is now fully installed. Enjoy enhanced front-end protection, integrated winch capability, and improved airflow for your Sprinter.
This bumper system combines durability, precision fitment, and modern sensor compatibility — built for the road and trail ahead.
RELEASE OF LIABILITY
I, the customer, do hereby release and forever discharge Owl Vans LLC, their agents, employees, successors and assigns, and their respective heirs, personal representatives, affiliates, successors and assigns, and any and all persons, firms or corporations liable or who might be claimed to be liable, whether or not herein named, from any and all claims, demands, damages, actions, causes of action or suits of any kind or nature whatsoever, whether known or unknown, fixed or contingent, which I now have or may hereafter have or claim to have, as a result of or in any way relating to the following: Parts sold & installed by Owl Vans LLC or parts sold & installed by end-user; any parts sold online, any parts sold online or installed by a re-seller, any parts installed by an installation shop.
It is understood and agreed that this payment is made and received in full and complete settlement and satisfaction of the aforesaid actions, causes of action, claims and demands; that this Release contains the entire agreement between the parties; and that the terms of this Agreement are contractual and not merely a recital.
Furthermore, this Release shall be binding upon the undersigned, and his respective heirs, executors, administrators, personal representatives, successors and assigns. This Release shall be subject to and governed by the laws of the State of Idaho.
PRODUCT SAFETY WARNING:
Owl Vans LLC strongly recommends the installation of products be done by a certified mechanic. If this does not occur, be certain the person(s) installing the product read, understand and follow all instructions and warnings pertaining to the application before installation. Do not add, alter, or fabricate any factory or aftermarket parts to increase vehicle height over the intended height of the Owl Vans LLC product purchased. Mixing component brands is not recommended.
Installation of suspension lift kits or any other lifting kits or devices will raise the center of gravity. For this reason, Owl Vans LLC urges that extreme caution be used when encountering driving conditions which may cause vehicle imbalance. Furthermore, the driver’s field of vision and judgment will not be as good due to the height of the vehicle. Due to the installation of larger tires, the speedometer will read slower than the actual speed being traveled and more distance will be required to stop the vehicle. It is the owner’s responsibility to caution and warn any potential driver of the vehicle about these driving and handling conditions. Owl Vans LLC will not be held liable or responsible for damages or personal injuries resulting from the use of lifting devices and or related products. The tires and rims should be changed to sufficiently increase the vehicle’s total overall width and stability to help accommodate lifting devices.
Owl Vans LLC aftermarket suspension products and accessories modify a vehicle for uses which exceed conditions anticipated by the vehicle manufacturer. The uses include the high performance demands required during off-road. These conditions vary in the degree of extremity and cannot be controlled by the vehicle or product manufacturer. If the components within the suspension system or accessories become worn due to frequent and/or extreme use, the safety and reliability of the vehicle is at risk. The maintenance of aftermarket equipment to ensure the vehicle occupants safety is entirely your responsibility. Do not purchase Owl Vans LLC products unless you are willing to accept this responsibility. Do not install any Owl Vans LLC suspension products or accessories unless you feel competent at installing the product without causing present or future injury to yourself or other vehicle occupants; seek an authorized installation center.
Most states have some type of law limiting vehicle height. The amount of lift allowed, and how the lift can be achieved, varies greatly. Several states offer exemptions for farm and commercial registered vehicles. It is the vehicle owner’s responsibility to check state and local laws to ensure that their vehicle will be in compliance.
Owl Vans LLC reserves the right to make changes in design, materials and specifications as deemed necessary without prior notice and without assuming obligation to modify any product previously manufactured. Obligation or liabilities will not be assumed with respect to similar products previously advertised.
This Release of Liability and Product Safety Warning has been read and fully understood by the undersigned and has been explained to me.
