So I managed to put a huge dent and huge gash in the engine skid plate and a decent sized dent in the gas tank skid plate today. I think the time has come to replace them with something more substancial.

Any recomendations? I know Downey has some skid plates for the 4th gen 4Runner. Anyone else making them? - Ideally I could get some protection for the transmission/transfer case as well.

 

Check out BudBuilt http://www.budbuilt.com/new/


Good quality stuff.

 

Thanks, that looks like it offers a lot more coverage than what Downey has, but is alos A LOT more expensive. Do I lose a bit of ground clearence with it (not that it will matter much)?

 

Hi there!

Just wondering why you think you will lose ground clearance? Other than the thickness of the steel!

Would love to answer any questions about them, either here or on the phone.

Thanks!
Bud

 

Yeah, I don't think any of Bud's products hang as low as factory stuff, and the quality is absolutely worth it. I'll be picking up a full belly pan setup soon hopefully.


Andy

 

Hey Bud, ya I don't know why I worried about ground clearence. I guess I wasn't sure if they hang lower than the stock ones, or maybe all that added weight would compress the springs more. I am also looking to add sliders and an ARB bull bar so it all adds up (weight and cost). I'll talk to the local 4X4 shop about ordering and installation and also figure out my budget and priorities in terms of armour - the dollars add up fast.

Any issues with your skids and XREAS? When chosing sliders, is there anything I should be aware of for compatibity with your skids?

 

Will, go with Bud. He has a reputation for great work, and is very responsive. You may pay a bit extra but I've never heard anything but praise from anyone here...