Convert SR5 to TRD

I just joined the world of Tacoma (2009 4x4 SR5). I will do some minor offroading - nothing crazy.

What would you recommend for skid plates to get close to TRD protection?

Thanks!

 

welcome! and go aftermarket! i hear the TRD skids plaits are not the best and can be pretty weak!

 

Thanks for the welcome!

If I'm doing minor offroading, what do I need?

I found a lot of options here but not sure if I need all those plates. Or would something like this do the trick alone? http://www.budbuilt.com/index.php?p...tegory_id=24&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=170

Any other suggestions?

 

3 plates...
IFS skid,T-case and trans. skid.

 

TRD makes skid plates?

 

Hi Trailrash,

I have a TRD 4x4 and the skidplated are basically worthless. I definitely recommend aftermarket skids.

I'm not aware of any "mild" aftermarket skidplates but be sure to compare the thickness and additional support (if any) between brands. 3/16" is pretty common and should give you peace of mind even as you surpass mild wheeling.

Fit is important so find a company who makes all three pieces (IFS, trans/oil pan, transfer case) and buy them as you can afford them.

Which one do you get first? I've found that my transfer case and exhaust are the most prone to being bashed. Your experience might be different.

 

If you ar going to do a skid upgrade do it right the first time and go with the Budbuilts or a set from Kevin at Armortek Offroad.

Even mild offroading can go bad at times

 

And sliders to save your rocker panels.

 

IMO you will need sliders before you need skids. While the stock skids arnt bomb proof they definatly do the job.

 

You should also check out the yellow wire mod. Your Sport does not have all of the limited slip differential capabilities it could in 4 Low. All you have to do is cut a wire and you gain some capability. Search for it on this site.

 

Go to post #51 on this page.
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/technical-chat/51946-4low-trac-3.html

 

The main thing that puts the TRD apart from SR5 or other packages is the rear diff locker and bilstien shocks.

I was not aware there's any difference in the skid plates.

 

VERY much agree. You can get away with alot before needing skids. I consider sliders a necessity.

TRD OR has a brush plate. Basically a tin plate to keep junk away from the underside of the engine area.
From factory you can add the grey TRD skid plate to any model, but as said.... why?

 

OK, sorry for the newb question, but mine is both a TRD and SR5. What's up with that?

 

Do a search on this site as well as others, you will find thousands of posts telling you what is included in each package.