Front Skid Plate - Help decide

I'm wanting to replace my factory skid pan with a real skid plate. I've been doing some research and I feel that for what I will use my truck for, aluminum would suffice, and checks off the boxes for rust inhibition and lighter weight deficit. I like the looks and function of the 3rd Gen TRD Pro skid, however I have an SR5, and I'm not sure how I feel about putting that on there now, even though it's basically the same thing. I'm also looking at the RCI aluminum front plate too (black or raw aluminum). Are there any other options that you can recommend for what I need/want? I don't object entirely to steel skids, but I don't plan on rock crawling with my truck either, just light to moderate trail riding. I appreciate any feedback ya'll can give!

 

You’ve got a 2nd gen. Don’t go getting a 3rd gen skid my man. Guessing your I North Carolina based on your handle.

They’ll all be more or less the same. Look at final price after shipping to sway yourself. I like ones that cover the cam bolts personally

 

Yes sir, North Carolina. I thought the 3rd Gen skids are a direct bolt up to the 2nd Gen's? I don't want the 2nd Gen TRD skid because it is basically a brush guard more than a skid plate.

 

I just meant why get that when you can get a legit skid. Cbi,rci,mobtown,BAMF, relentless and many more I would rather have, especially if the prices are anywhere close to each other.

 

The front plate takes more of a beating than other skids, I'm using the one from Shrockworks, powder coated white (came with the bumper). So a legit front skid is steel. If you feel aluminum will suffice, then make the rest of them aluminum.

 

i vote rci steel, i dont trust aluminum for skid plates.

 

Steel is probably overkill for anything that I will ever get into, but then again, it's cheaper and more robust compared to aluminum. In all actuality I probably don't even need to worry about an aftermarket skid, but the protection and aesthetics are a definite bonus.

 

SOS concepts,I believe they're in NC as well. I run their front skid and love it,even jack the truck up with it.

 

budbuilt is another NC option.

 

Oh.....your gonna need a skid made from 1/2" high strength steel.

Then you could beef up the front suspension, good opportunity for a 3" lift and bigger tires.

Don't forget the front bumper with winch mount, then back to front suspension......


Be careful of the swirling rabbit hole of $$$$ and never quite complete modifications.

BTW. Its really easy to spend someone else's money.

 

I like my all pro aluminum. I added a fumoto valve and hose for ease of oil changes.

 

I'd go BAMF. 1/4" steel and it'll be the only one you'll ever need. Get 10% off with tw10

https://www.bayareametalfab.com/2005-2021-Toyota-Tacoma-IFS-Skid_p_56.html