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ARB plates with Differential drop.

Discussion in '5th Gen 4Runners (2010-2024)' started by CORunner, Apr 24, 2021.

  1. Apr 24, 2021 at 5:39 PM
    #1
    CORunner

    CORunner [OP] New Member

    Joined:
    Mar 22, 2021
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    Male
    ARB plates are not for everyone. I chose them because I desired more protection than the factory plates but didnt want the weight of the more popular and stronger skid systems.

    These are not what you want if you are a rock crawler but for a Overland build or for the weekend warrior, they might be worth a look. I have a built Jeep for crawling so this build is more for trail running.

    It is true that picking good lines and having a little luck usually is all you need to do but as luck always runs out at the least opportune time, I went with some better plates.

    The ARB plates are twice as thick as the standard OE plates.
    IMG_9866.jpg
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    IMG_9921.jpg

    Again know what you want to do with your truck but if weight is a factor for you. Keep reading.

    My first issue was I disclosed that the previous owner of my vehicle had done a differential drop (1inch). After thinking ARB had sent me the wrong kit and some advise from some friends on this forum I proceeded with the installation.

    Differential drops are pandoras box when it comes to peoples opinions on if they are needed etc. I considered taking mine out but with three inches of lift, I like my CV angles, why not leave it.
    I spoke to Slee Offroad (Toyota Specialist) multiple lift shops and two Toyota dealers who install lift kits and the consensus on the need for a diff drop was split right down the middle. Bottom line. I kept it.
    IMG_9926.jpg
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    A quick plug for Kwik Jacks. SO MUCH easier than wrestling with jack stands (which I still use for safety.

    For those running a diff drop. The spacers you will use on the front (bash) plate will need to be the same size. You will only need the spacers for the front plate and only on the forward 2 and mid two pints of contact. Of course If dropping your plates 1 inch bothers you, dont do it but these plates will not work with a diff drop without them. I purchased M8 bolts of longer length for these points then used factory HDW for the rear two bolts which sets flush to the mount surface with no spacer. For the rest of the instal simply follow the ARB instructions and HDW>

    Picture- Bolts are only finger tight.

    IMG_9933.jpg
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    Pros of these plates.
    Improved protection over stock.
    Light weight.
    Excellent paint coating (no painting needed).

    Cons-
    Light weight- If your crawling you need LCI, BUDS, LFD etc.
    Access ports- Front plate must be removed or modified to access oil filter.


    Build your rig for what you want but at $425 these plates my be worth a look.
     
    BionicRandy and Moon Landing like this.
  2. Apr 24, 2021 at 7:25 PM
    #2
    RioT4R

    RioT4R New Member

    Joined:
    Apr 1, 2017
    Member:
    #3805
    Messages:
    59
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Austyn
    Virginia Beach, VA
    Vehicle:
    2019 Silver Off Road Premium
    Bilsteins, Dobinsons, Pizza cutters
    I have had these plates in mind for a while. Its nice to see someone's review on them with good pictures. I wonder if the front plate is as thick as the TRD Pro one.
     
  3. Apr 24, 2021 at 9:56 PM
    #3
    CORunner

    CORunner [OP] New Member

    Joined:
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    Well, i dont know but I found several posting stating it is 1/4 inch Alum. What type 6061 vs ??? I dont know. I think either way (ARB vs TRDPRO) youre way better off than the stock tins.
     
    RioT4R likes this.
  4. Jun 26, 2022 at 12:24 PM
    #4
    blackcloud08

    blackcloud08 They're Watching Us....

    Joined:
    Sep 6, 2018
    Member:
    #7027
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    94
    Do you have a list of the extra hardware you had to buy?
     
  5. Jun 26, 2022 at 3:26 PM
    #5
    BionicRandy

    BionicRandy New Member

    Joined:
    Dec 4, 2021
    Member:
    #24510
    Messages:
    831
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Randy
    TX Hill Country
    Vehicle:
    2012 Black SR5 aka the Batmobile
    Lots of goodies
    Add to cons: 1. Crap instructions for 4Runner installation specifically…there were NONE! lol
    2. Narrower and without side protection offered by some other manufacturers. Zero cat protection as well.
    3. Low quality hardware. Go to a hardware store and buy good bolts. The stuff that comes with these skids is crap. Virtually all of it rusted rather quickly and I live in a DRY climate where rust grows very slowly.

    Like you said, good for light stuff, but I highly recommend those who can afford better skids do so. I consider them temporary.
     

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