Cali Raised and RCI skid plate question

I see from the install videos they require the removal of two factory braces. Should I be concerned about that or does the skid plate do the function that they were on there to brace or am I overthinking this?

 

You are overthinking it.

 

You're not overthinking it. Its a good idea to question the removal or addition of any part on a vehicle, as they all serve specific functions. Many jump straight into the opinion of others, take sway bar removal for example, and decide they do or don't need it based off of somebody else's internet opinion. Sure, tons are gonna chime in and say you're overthinking it, but I say keep that mindset. Once you figure out the purpose of the braces, you'll have a good understanding of whether you need them or not, or if the addition of skids essentially takes up that role.

FWIW, I think the skids take up that function, and are a little beefier than the braces at that.

 

You’re not overthinking anything it’s great to ask questions. The skids take the place of braces for sure. Have fun

 

I've watched a ton of install videos, even the manufacturer ones but they all just say remove them but if I'm removing factory braces I like to understand their exact function. I mean some engineer at Toyota put them there for a reason. If the skid plate replaces them that's fine I just don't want to comprise some engineered safety they may have served.

 

Since our skid plate does not tie into the frame rails, we left those braces there.

that being said in the front we removed the braces that go from the engine cross member to the radiator support because the skid plate provides support in that area.