Overview
The Rugged Ridge Jeep Wrangler Engine and Transmission Skid Plate, part number 18003.51, protects the engine and transmission on the Jeep Wrangler JK. It fits the 2012 to 2018 Wrangler JK, including the 75th Anniversary, Rubicon, Sahara, Sport and Sport S versions and the Unlimited models.
The skid plate is made from 3/16-inch powder coated steel with a rust resistant E-coat. It bolts on at the existing frame mounting locations and is intended for lifted JKs with Dana 30 or Dana 44 front axles.
Key features
- Protects the engine oil pan and transmission
- 3/16-inch black powder coated steel
- Rust resistant E-coat
- Bolt-on installation at existing frame mounting locations
- Intended for lifted JKs with Dana 30 or Dana 44 front axles
- 2.5-inch lift recommended to prevent driveshaft rubbing
Lift height and driveline clearance
Adding lift changes the angle of the driveshafts, the position of the front axle, and how far the skid sits from the ground. On a lifted Jeep the engine and transmission are carried higher, which changes the protection a skid provides, so the plate should be fitted with the final lift already in place. Shock length and track bar setup often change at the same time and should be checked together.
Driveshaft vibration is one of the first signs that the drivetrain angles have moved too far. Check U-joints and the transfer case output for play after a lift, and look for rubbing at the driveshaft tubes where the skid sits. Plates that bolt to the frame should be rechecked after the first few trips on a new suspension.
- Recheck driveline angles after any lift change
- Inspect U-joints for play after the first drives
- Watch for driveshaft rubbing near the skid
- Confirm the axle type before buying related parts
Specifications
| Brand | Rugged Ridge |
|---|---|
| Part number | 18003.51 |
| UPC | 804314240950 |
| Position | Engine oil pan |
| Material | 3/16-inch powder coated steel |
| Finish | Black powder coat with rust resistant E-coat |
| Engine | 3.6L six-cylinder |
| Front axles | Dana 30 and Dana 44 |
| Lift | 2.5 inches recommended |
| Installation | Bolt-on, no cutting or drilling required |
Vehicle fitment
It fits the 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler (JK) models shown here, including the Unlimited.
The short notes say the skid is for lifted JKs only, so stock-height vehicles are not covered. Confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
Installation notes
The skid bolts on at the existing frame mounting locations. A lift of 2.5 inches or more is needed to prevent driveshaft rubbing, so check the lift height before fitting the skid.
What’s included
The engine and transmission skid plate. Check the package contents against your installation before starting.
