Skid Plates

What skid plates protect

Underbody components are exposed when you climb or drag across rocks. A dent in an oil pan, a punctured fuel tank or a cracked transfer case housing can end a trip or cause costly repairs. A skid plate gives these parts a sacrificial shield that also helps the vehicle slide over obstacles instead of catching on them. Common plates include the engine and transmission, transfer case, fuel tank, differential and control-arm skids.

Material and thickness

• Steel: Stronger and generally lower cost, but heavier. Thicknesses such as 1/8 inch or 3/16 inch plate are common, and thicker steel resists deformation better.
• Aluminum: Lighter, which lowers unsprung and total weight, but it generally needs more thickness for the same protection and can gouge on rocks.
• Finish: Powder coat helps protect against rust, and bare steel needs paint before use.

Design details that matter

Look at the coverage area, the shape and any dimples, ribs or formed edges that add stiffness. A plate that is flat and has few fasteners may slide well but offers less rigidity. Check whether the design leaves room to service the oil drain, filter and plugs, and whether it includes crossmember or frame mounts. For a transfer case plate, note the transfer case model and whether the plate positions the skid higher for better clearance.

Fitment and installation

Skid plates are very model-specific, because they bolt to particular frame and crossmember points. Identify your engine, transmission, transfer case and fuel tank configuration and confirm fitment for your exact year, make and model. Check the manufacturer's specifications. Support heavy plates with a jack while you install them, use all supplied hardware and torque it to the specified values. Heavy plates add weight and can trap mud or reduce airflow, so inspect and clean them after trail use. Some fuel tank and transfer case installations are best handled by a professional.

Plan clearance in advance. Fasteners that sit proud of the plate can catch on rocks, so many owners choose flush or low-profile hardware where the design allows. Check bolts after every rough trip, because a loose plate can rattle, bend or tear free, and repair dents promptly to keep the plate's shape and strength.

Choosing coverage and avoiding mistakes

Decide which components are most at risk for your driving. A fuel tank and transfer case are expensive and exposed on many models, so they are often the first priority. Then consider the engine and transmission, followed by differential covers and control arms. Pick the plate whose shape follows the part closely but keeps a gap for airflow and service access.

• Do not use thinner plate than the application needs just to save weight.
• Do not reuse stretched or bent bolts.
• Do not forget to check clearance with the exhaust, driveshaft and any lift kit crossmember.

After a hard impact, look underneath for cracked mounts or a bent plate pressing on the part it is meant to protect. Replacing a bent plate promptly prevents it from causing damage during the next hit.