anyone experience what might be the smartest way to install the front bumper (cover) on a 78 vette.

options are .. first the headlight units and then the bumper or the otherway round.

my idea it is best to install bumper(cover) first since then i  have a better acces to the corners   and after that  the light units ?

tia

art-corvette

art-corvette38959.5263541667

I would install the bumper cover mounting brackets now. (including the crash bar) If it is a new bumper cover you will probally have it on a couple of times for alignment. (They need to be shaved / sanded for proper fit. How much depends on the style bumper cover you bought. (OEM, TruFlex, Fiberglass)
My preference is headlights in and grill out but I think thats just because that is typically how it works since the bumpercover is all that is need of replacement and the headlights are required to be pulled.

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Install the bumper brackets/bar/honeycomb, etc., first, yes.
Then install the headlights. Much easier with free access.
The bumper cover can be installed last. The upper bolts are a little tight to get to, but not at all impossible.

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Putting the bumper on first is the easiest way can get inside for the attaching bolts. If you have not done before before trying to place on car let it lay in the sun for an hours so it snaps over the ridge in the center of the bumper mount