Overview
The Rugged Ridge Gas Tank Skid Plate (Black), part number 18003.21, is a fuel tank skid plate for the 1987 to 1995 Jeep Wrangler YJ. It replaces the factory skid plate under the fuel tank and guards the tank against rocks and other trail obstacles during off-road use.
The plate is cut from 3/16-inch thick steel and finished with an E-coating under a black powder coat, a combination meant to prevent rust. It bolts in at the existing frame mounting locations, so the installation requires no cutting or drilling. It is built to work with both the 15-gallon and 20-gallon YJ gas tanks.
Key features
- 3/16-inch thick steel for impact protection under the fuel tank
- E-coating under a black powder coat finish to prevent rust
- Bolt-on installation at the existing mounting locations
- No cutting or drilling required
- Works with 15- and 20-gallon gas tanks
- Replaces the factory fuel tank skid plate
Before you install
A skid plate under a fuel tank works as a shield. On the trail it takes hits from rocks, stumps and ledges that would otherwise reach the tank or the lines running beside it. Because the plate sits low, it is often the first part to show scrapes, so a quick look after each off-road outing helps catch dents, cracked welds or loose fasteners early.
Before bolting the plate on, check that the tank straps, fuel lines and filler hose have room around the new shape. Wipe the mounting surfaces clean and use new hardware if the old bolts are rusted or stretched. Re-check the bolts after the first few trail runs, since the plate can settle slightly as it seats against the frame.
- Look for dents or cracked seams after rough trail use
- Confirm the tank size is 15 or 20 gallons before ordering
- Touch up chipped coating before rust can spread
Specifications
| Brand | Rugged Ridge |
|---|---|
| Part number | 18003.21 |
| UPC | 804314175382 |
| Product type | Fuel tank skid plate |
| Material | 3/16-inch thick steel |
| Finish | E-coat under black powder coat |
| Compatible gas tanks | 15 or 20 gallons |
| Installation | Bolt-on at existing mounting locations; no cutting or drilling |
| Fit type | Direct fit |
Vehicle fitment
It fits 1987 to 1995 Jeep Wrangler YJ models.
It is a YJ-specific plate. Confirm fit for your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
Installation notes
The plate replaces the factory skid plate, so the factory unit comes off first and this plate bolts into the same mounting area. Because it uses the existing mounting locations, no new holes are needed.
What’s included
The black powder-coated 3/16-inch steel gas tank skid plate.
