Why has successfully modded the non TRD gas tank straps to bolt up a gas tank skid plate?

Oops, meant "who"

I'd prefer not to buy TRD straps from Toyota if I don't have to and I don't want any more scratches on my tank.

Skid plate builders say you can do it but I'm hoping for some first hand experiences.

Followup question: It doesn't totally make sense to me why you would bolt a skid to the very item you're trying to protect. How exactly does the gas tank skid attach? Are there other mounting locations? Say I get hung up on a rock on the tank skid...is the weight of the car going through the walls of the tank?

 

The bare and exposed stock tank is made of plastic that could easily be damaged. I wouldn't suggest going around putting the full weight of the truck onto it as it'll squish the tank.
The TRD skid plate is held on by these flimsy tank straps with studs welded into it. if you ask me its a pretty piss poor design.

My SR5 didnt have the TRD skid plate so i bought the TRD straps and a Pelfreybilt gas tank skid plate. Still dont think its all that great but it'll definitly help deflect debris and skid over obstacles if needed