Anyone know WHY TRD Pro skid plate oil panel offset such that oil filter is on driver's side of hole

Seems odd to have oil filter offset to driver's of access opening? Just wondering? Don't think it precludes removing oil filter with skid plate installed. But a real head scratcher? Unless to also accommodate strap style oil filter wrenches. Thanks

 

You will get an answer dude, no need to make multiple threads.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...ter-with-trd-pro-skid-plate-installed.468589/

 

Because it needs to drain straight down when you crack the filter open, otherwise it'll run all over the plate.

Not everyone has the drain tube and I don't think Toyota may have spec'd for that tool during the design. I'm not even sure if Toyota has the part number or even their own tool.

 

GPSevensixx, it is offset with filter on driver side of across hole plate. When you look up the filter is off center with driver edge of filter aligned with driver edge of access hole. Now the drain plug will still be allowed to go into drain pan. And you can still get cup type filter wrench on filter. But it not even close to centered in rectangular access hole. Don't you find that odd? Or do you think it allows for a strap type wrench which requires your hand up in hole and to one side? Maybe they centered access hole due to looking better. As long as it allows function of changing filter w/o having to remove skid plate I am fine with it. It is a very nice plate not requiring removal of 2 brackets and has studly bolts mid-span going back. Plus it is OEM , has TRD on plate (embossed) and made for vehicle w/o degrading it. The spacers provided at front 4 bolts allow for securing the skid plate and retaining the brackets simultaneously in 1 joint. The skid plate also is molded to be flush on center jacking point so that you can jack up truck directly bearing on skid plate w/o bending plate. Great design. Just don't quite understand the off-center filter/hole arrangement. I am going with strap type wrench option.

 

Might be for their specific factory wrench, which may very well be the strap type.