FRONT SKID PLATE REPLACEMENT WITH ACCESS TO OIL FILTER

Other than the missing front diff and transfer case, what else is different about the front end underside of the 2wd vs 4wd?

 

Missing front driveshaft.

 

This.

However, I am not 100% certain, although I would be surprised if the 4x4 engine / trans skid does not fit the 2wd. There are a lot of good skids out there. I run an RCI, but it would be way overkill if you are not beating it up off road, as would the vast majority of aftermarket skids. 3/16 solid steel is not light! ...and aluminum options are that much more expensive.

 

The engine is exactly the same. The transmission is slightly different so the transmission cross member needs to be modded but for he most part they drop right in.

 

I know the TRD Skid bolts right on for 2wd.
Can't imagine why the RCI Skid is 4x4 only.
If anything having less stuff up front would mean more leg room for installation.

So even if I was to be able to source all the parts, it would not be a simple bolt on?

 

I have the RCI skid with oil access door. But when I took it to the dealer for 10k oil change the tech just took off the whole thing. I probably will too when I use up my free changes. It's just 4 bolts and gives more room to work

 

Almost. The bolted in cross member needed to be cut and modded a little bit. The rest is bolt in.

 

Zero

 

Maybe two minutes if you’ve already removed the damper in the past, but with the damper still on, it’s more of a pain in the ass than it should be.

 

RCI skids are on the list.

Used 6 inch hole saw on drill.
Galvanized scrap metal and aluminum strip in garage.
Cut and bent by hand.
Stainless steel locking nuts and bolts.
One easy nut removal for oil change.
So easy anyone can do it. Even a caveman.

 

Nice!great job!

 

There are other options. Better options

 

How close to center did the hole turn out? Did you measure or just eye ball the hole placement? Any chance of a picture of it installed with a view of the filter?

 

I’ve looked at your site a few times!

 

I placed the hole there so as to provide an easy reach. With a 6 inch hole, I believe anywhere close to the centerline of the plate will provide easy access.

The hole saw has a pilot drill on it. I placed a tape measure across and above the plate, marked an approximate center spot with a pencil and drilled away.

1-From front, below bumper looking back.

2-Looking straight up the hole.

 

Change it from the top https://youtu.be/GfYSWQob-zU
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Trac-7-Liter-Fluid-Oil-Extractor/27328256

 

If you don't go off road, why not remove the skid and just leave it off?

 

That's what I'm thinking. I may just try it on my next oil change.

 

a lot of road dirt and debris will cover the lower part and front of the engine if u leave the pan off, the pan will block a lot of this dirt from getting on the serpentine belt and the pulleys since they aren't directly exposed.

 

How are you going to replace the filter from the top?