Recommend me a front skid

So I broke 3 of the 4 bolts that hold my front skid and 2 of the bolts holding the transmission skid. I wanted to take them off to repaint, but their rusted to crap and bolts are busted so I figure I'd just dump them and go aftermarket. I'm not looking for anything for rock crawling or anything. Just something to protect the bottom from unexpected rocks or debris from "light" off-roading. Would prefer aluminum but if steel is cheaper I don't mind going that route. And something that's easy to install with minimal effort. I don't plan to use the stock bolt holes so I didn't bother to extract those broken bolts. Anyways what are my options?

 

A lot of aftermarket skids use stock mounting locations so which bolts did ya snap?

From what you describe you need, it honestly sounds like stock splash guards are more than enough

 

All Pro......heavy steel.....about 44# IIRC

 

I have a steel RCI that I painted black and I like it. It's heavy enough that you'll need help to install and remove it (if you do your oil changes).
Edit: Looks a lot like the post above me.

 

The only problem with the OE mounting location stuff is thst the nuts which are tack welded in place break after one of two uses for some reason. He is better off running a legitimate skid using external fasteners. The BAMF skid is awesome, but it is built with 100% steel and I believe it only comes offered in 1/4". It weighs some 83lbs and is a pain to put on for that very reason, though I just use a jack these days.

 

Dammit. I snapped 3 of the 4 for the front, 2 rear ones on the trans skid, stripped one of the front ones. Dammit.

 

I would prefer not having to remove it for oil changes, so good to know RCI's need to be removed.

 

then you should be good actually, so like the 12mm socket bolts right? As long as it is not the 17mm bolts then you are good. Like @12TRDTacoma said you are probably off getting one that uses the 17mm bolt holes as those are a bit sturdier. Just shop around as there are a few vendors having tax sale specials. Even the TRD Pro skid would be a good deal and can sometimes be found for $280 or so.

 

X2 on this one. I've had mine for quite a few years, and more that a few nice bashes. Easy oil change without removal.

 

I've had a few aftermarket skids and even the ones with holes cut out for oil draining still make a huge mess when you try and use them that way. Much easier and cleaner to just drop the skid and change the oil. With an aftermarket steel skid it helps a ton to use a floor jack to lower and raise it while taking it on/off. Just a few bolts and you're in business.

I have thought about maybe getting a funnel to put over the hole cutout on the skid to catch more of the oil that drains out and funnel it through the hole, may try that next time.

 

You got any links to some vendors? I'm still pretty new around here. Thanks.

 

Just click on forums and it will show you the vendors subforum, the list is pretty huge so spend some time researching. Usually sales are posted in deals and coupons that I also circled.

 

Yeah, a floor jack would make it easy peasy.

 

yea trying to hold up a 50 - 60lb steel skid plate with your knees and one hand while lying on your back and trying to line it up with your free hand so you can thread the first bolt in is no fun at all, been there done that

 

This is the aluminum skid I just ordered 10 minutes ago. I wouldn't go boulder bashing with it, but for light off road, it should be fine, and only weights 28 lbs. With the 15% off taxman2020 code, it came out to $394 shipped.

https://mobtownoffroad.com/product/2005-2015-toyota-tacoma-front-skid-plate/

 

Also have RCI. I have been happy enough with oil change process.

 

BPF has a 10% off going right now- steel

 

I don't know why he would remove for an oil change....must be doing some weird shit. I've had there front plate for two years and haven't had to remove it for any maintenance.

 

I’m also looking into skids, however I can’t decide what I need. Ideally I’d go with the RCI full skid, but also money..... Do I really need the full skid trilogy? Or just the T-Case for now until I get more money? Still have factory skid.

 

Are RCI's the cheapest? What did you pay? and did you get the full set or just the front?