What Do You Think of CBI Aluminum Armor

Just got mine delivered today for my 2020 OR. Going to put it on this week. Since I mainly do overlanding and Forest Service Trails, I am don't need massive protection but I have already dented the thin metal OEM armor/brush guard that comes with the Offroad.
I'm hoping it is not too much for a DYI install project. Need to watch some YouTube videos.

Do you think it will be enough?

 

Probably shoulda posed this question before ordering. It should be stronger than the OEM but not as strong as steel.

 

It sounds like you already understand that you have chosen light weight armor over heavy duty. So as long as you remember that and don't beat them too hard it should treat you well.

 

I can say that CBI makes very good stuff. But know what the trade offs are.

 

My guess is that it is overkill, but that’s without knowing how you intend to drive it.

I also think blanket statements about steel parts being stronger than aluminum parts without consideration of other factors (eg thickness and alloy) is short sighted.

My personal experience is with the TRD 1/4” aluminum skid plate. It has survived sliding over a rock large enough to lift one front wheel (maybe both) and slamming down on dirt as the wheels feel into a 4’ crevice. I’m sure I could treat it worse, but I don’t generally look to bash my truck on rocks, but I do drive it into situations where that might be necessary. The front skid plate and rock sliders have been useful.

 

Agreed. Aluminum is plenty strong. I’d say the weight savings is a huge plus for many. I’d prefer aluminum in places for sure. My 1st Gen is a dog.

But there’s always the right application of materials for the use. I’d bash aluminum all day if it were for one race then discarded. Or use aluminum on my DD I bash once or twice a year. It’s just pricy.

As for all that armor for you? Rock it. I think it’s not all completely necessary. But if you use it just once it could be. I don’t judge, as I am bad about wanting stuff I don’t need...

 

I haven’t installed the CBI skid nor any transmission or transfer case skid, but I can say that the TRD skid was a piece of cake that took me an hour or less working in the street outside my building with no jacks or special tools. One trick I used is using a bungee strap to hold the skid in place while I threaded the bolts.

EDIT: I have a 2” lift and 33’s, but I’ve heard of other people installing skids with no jacks.

 

Unless you're planning on rock crawling, you'll be happy with the weight of the aluminum when you install, and for everyday use.

PSA for anyone looking to install a skid trilogy, get the exhaust reroute done, and order the skids that don't hang below the cross member. So much cleaner!

 

I think my exhaust might have been pushed upwards during my shenanigans. I remember it hanging down lower. I think now it might be possible to install a flat skid. I’d have to look closer to know for sure.

 

Any guidance on how much it costs for the exhaust reroute? I worry about that dumb exhaust down there a lot.

 

Seems like the going rate is around $200. Exhaust reroute thread is over Here

 

Thank you, sorry I was ineffective with the search button.

 

Google is your friend. The search feature on the site is next to useless.

 

You are going to be fine. Unless you are going hard core and/or intentionally bashing your truck Aluminum will do the job and help keep the weight down.

I have triple aluminum skids on my Tacoma and they did their job when I ran out of breakover angle (at controlled low-speed, more than once) in most recent Moab trip. On one trail I high centered at the top of one of the optional routes four times before I gave up and took the bypass. Scuffs/scratches on the skids - Yes. Damage - No.

You are good to go!

A definite yes on the exhaust re-route, anywhere from $100 to $200 (maximum). I'd recommend you consider asking if CBI will exchange for a skid without the exhaust pipe clearance.