Skid Plate Options.

So the time has come to do some more modding, and I was really stuck for a while between getting some more (or replacing factory) skids and getting rock sliders. That was until my buddy had made the very valid point that if I'm sliding on my rock slider, and go under the truck, I'm basically SOL, whereas if I'm sliding on the skids, and i rub off on a running board, I might break it and have minimal body damage. This way, I've decided that because I already wheel the truck, and don't do anything I don't think I can relatively easily clear (as I don't have much armor despite the fat steel bumper on the front), that I should get skid plates, for those "Oh Shit" moments, as I already anticipate a lot more body damage than I usually get.

TL;DR: I've decided to get skid plates before sliders, as the mechanical/suspension components are more valuable (in terms of survival and whatnot) than the body.

Anyway, since I've decided to get skids, I'm wondering what options are actually realistic for my hella low budget and high learning curve.

So far, I've looked into ARB specifically, as it should have no issues with the bumper, and all would fit together well. I'm concerned as to if I get skids from all over the place how much modification (if any) will need to be done in order to get them to fit. And will those modifications lower their respective strengths? will they lose their strength as a single unit?

Another option I've looked into is making my own. This option doesn't seem like it involves much, other than measuring for holes and clearance, especially if I use some decently thick steel. I do, however, then, need to get good at welding.

Should I just bite the bullet and pay out the ass for skids? Or would I really save that much by making my own (given that that's time I can't work or anything).

 

Based on your location maybe buy reputable skids and pick them up from a local shop. No shipping cost can help a lot.

 

Take look at the RCI skids . I got the full kit for $1200 and it makes a world of difference when i'm out off road. This is front to back Aluminum including the gas tank one. They did have the steel for a lot less but i want to save the extra weight for more mods that i already have on it. Very much worth it if you use the rig. Good luck

 

did your full set include the lca, rear diff, and rear link skids??

 

No i decided not to go with them cause i was get aluminum and will keep look for some but later.