Dented something while Offroading

So I had some fun yesterday. Came down hard on a rock. Dented this thing. Will it have any negative effects. Thanks for the help.

 

Damn that was close call for your front differential-- no leaks/rattles or broken mounts above it? If not im willing to guess your fine-- may have an slight impact on your alignment?

 

I didn't see any leaks. I didn't see anything broken, I don't think. But then again, I'm not a mech. Should I look into replacing this part....if that's even possible?

 

That's a structural cross member. The only way to replace it is to cut it out and have a new one welded in. The part can not be purchased, you'd have to cut it off of another Tacoma. As long as you can align your truck properly, I wouldn't worry about it. Based on where it is, I would thoroughly check out your front differential to make sure whatever you hit, didn't drag over that first. Also, check any mounts that are in close proximity to that cross member to make sure nothing else was hit. Lastly, if you are going to wheel hard to the point where you managed to dent a fairly stout cross member, do yourself, and your truck, a favor and invest in a decent set of skid plates. 6" forward and your differential would have likely been toast from that hit and further back you would have the risk of trashing your belly pan or transfer case.

 

Thanks. Yep skid plate is next on my list of upgrades.

 

it fine... mine are a bit more crushed in than that with no ill effects other than rust where the paint was scratched off

 

I've bent mine upwards a bit. Nothing happened other than it sounded like the truck fell off a cliff and it scared the crap out of me.

 

YUP....pucker factor went up a bit when I hit.

 

Glad to hear most of you think it should be ok.

Looking at these skid plates for the next upgrade.

 

I don't see a dent?

 

Really? Its warped metal and scratches.

 

Yeah I see it now. That's nothing.