Aluminum vs. Steel Skids

I was driving down a freeway in my Corolla at 60 MPH, saw the "whatever" in the road ahead of time but could not change lanes suddenly for obvious reasons. "It" smashed my splash guard (it is a Corolla, not a truck). Things occur like rocks deciding to jump up because they are bored and want to do *something*.

 

Aluminum would be vote.

I don't have sliders, but my (steel) side steps have taken a beating and haven't bent yet. I do have to touch them up after every winter though, from the rust scratches...

PS. I would gladly trade my rear steel bumper for an aluminum one.

 

Boy do I have some fresh good news for you.

 

Seems like a good option if you were to remove the oem tow hitch. installing an aluminum bumper with the oem tow hitch probably isn’t going to save weight over a complete steel rear with the hitch integrated into the bumper

 

Nice set up and pretty off road worthy - I personally have a great time on even some difficult rated trails (trails I originally built my rig with the intention of staying off of) on 33s, a 2" lift and 5100s - I know you like the pizza cutters where as I went with the 285/75R16 in the other direction. The only problem with the side steps is they are typically attached to the body and can result in significant body damage if they get slammed into a rock or obstacle or worse ripped off where as sliders are attached to the frame and protect from body damage. You can always get sliders with step incorporated into them.

 

Couldn't agree more. I avoid rock climbing at all cost, just isn't worth the investment. I'll leave that the the Jeep's and their short wheelbase. Knock on wood I haven't done any damage underneath. I wouldn't mind aluminum underneath though.

 

Got it - really if you are not doing a serious off road stuff you are fine . . . . but with your lift and 33s add a little armor and you could hit some trails.

 

Oh ya, I hit the trails, just not the rock trails...

 

Steel or Aluminum?

After listening to enough of these skid plate threads I have come to a conclusion for advice. If you plan on using the skids, get steel; if the use is inconsequential, get aluminum.