A skid plate is a device you could have heard of if you have bothered peeping under the vehicle or if you have off-roaded. However, what is a skew plate, and what makes it so vital for your car? This article talked about the definitions, advantages, and types of installation of skid plates to give you an understanding of how this equipment matters more than you think.
What is a Skid Plate?
Skid plates are the metal or plastic shells that cover the underside of the vehicle to protect important components such as the engine oil pan, the transmission, the fuel tank, the transfer case, and differentials from damage. Such applications mostly have no skid plates, but are commonly found on typical off-road vehicles, trucks, SUVs, high-performance cars, and sometimes, on normal sedans. In essence, skid plates are armor against the rocks, debris, uneven terrain, and other road hazards that can easily dent your pocket.
Why Is a Skid Plate Important?
Most motorists have a misconception regarding how vulnerable undercarriages are. This is because the most vital undercarriages are the most expensive components within the underside of your car. Skid plate can make a significant difference between maintaining safe driving techniques on poorly maintained roads and incurring costly repairs while off-roading.
Advantages of Getting a Skid Plate:
Protection of Vital Components
Skid plates serve to protect the engine oil pan, exhaust components, and transmission from impacts.
Protection Against Rust and Corrosion
Some skid plates also form a panel to protect against elements like salt, water, and dirt, ensuring that exposed parts do not rust or corrode due to long-term exposure.
Improves Off-road Capability
For off-road run enthusiasts, skid plates play a big part in allowing a vehicle to slide over boulders and terrain without damaging life-critical components.
Saves on Repairs
This will save thousands or even hundreds of dollars in oil pan repair or in replacing a punctured fuel tank. However, it’s a small investment when contrasted with what one would pay for repairs.
Enhances Safety
A damaged fuel line or oil leak from a hit to the underbody can cause serious safety risks. Skid plates help prevent such accidents.
Types of Skid Plates
Not every skid plate undergoes the same manufacturing process, and depending on the user’s requirements, different types of protection come into play.
Engine Skid Plate
An engine skid plate is designed to protect the engine oil pan and lower engine block, the areas that are most likely to sustain serious damage from rocks or curbs.
Transmission Skid Plate
These plates are designed to protect the transmission system. Best used on trucks and 4x4s.
Fuel Tank Skid Plate
Usually made of thick steel, this skid plate prevents sharp debris from puncturing the fuel tank.
Transfer Case Skid Plate
Essential for 4WD vehicles, this protects the transfer case, which controls power to the front and rear wheels.
Full Underbody Skid Plate
A full-coverage skid plate provides comprehensive protection for multiple components in a single setup.
Materials Used in Skid Plates
Skid plates may be made from different materials depending upon the desired juxtaposition of weight, strength, and cost:
Steel: This rare off-road material, designed for extreme use, is highly durable and is most frequently used.
Aluminium: Lightweight and resistant to corrosion, but cannot push the limits of steel in toughness.
Plastic/Composite: These lightweight materials serve well in medium off-road use or around town. It’s not particularly durable in extreme use.
Who Needs a Skid Plate?
Skid plates are quite the rage among off-road enthusiasts; all the same, everyday drivers might find them useful, too.
- Off-roaders: Driving through trails, into forests, and across rocky terrain – a skid plate is mandatory.
- City Drivers: The undercarriages are vulnerable to threats in urban environments with high curbs, potholes, and road debris.
- Rural or Mountain Drivers: Dealing with dirt roads, gravel, and rough terrains is hazardous for the underbody of a car.
Fleet Vehicles or Delivery Trucks: These are vehicles that typically operate over long distances on various road conditions. It simply makes sense.
Skid Plate Installation: Can You Do It Yourself?
Installing skid plates can be a do-it-yourself project as long as the individual is reasonably comfortable working under the vehicle and has the needed tools. Some skid plates, however, are not something one would want to attempt installing without assistance due to peculiarities that apply to the particular make or model.
Basic Installation Steps:
- Lifting the Vehicle: Either use a jack or a car lift to access the undercarriage.
- Remove Covers or Any Obstructions: Some vehicles may have some plastic covers.
- Align the Skid Plate: Hold the skid plate up to the predetermined mount points.
- Secure It with Bolts: Use existing hardware to securely fasten the plate in place.
- Make Sure to Double-Check for Clearance: Ensure there is no contact with moving parts or other components.
The installation instructions should always be consulted for particular demands. If in doubt, consult the mechanic.
Maintenance Tips for Skid Plates
To get the most out of your skid plate, follow these simple maintenance tips:
Inspect Regularly: Check for dents, rust, or loose bolts.
Clean After Off-Roading: Mud and debris can collect on skid plates, so clean them thoroughly after rough use.
Check Fasteners: Vibration and impacts can loosen bolts over time; periodically tighten them to prevent loosening.
Replace If Damaged: A bent or cracked skid plate offers little protection and should be replaced.
Are Skid Plates Worth It?
Definitely, for the price, a skid plate is an upgrade that provides high protection for the truck. Skid plating a Jeep, SUV, or even a sedan can enhance the vehicle’s lifespan and reduce unexpected repair bills.
The cost of a skid plate is a small price to pay compared to the cost of undercarriage repairs for anyone who values building longevity and safety into their vehicles.
Conclusion
A skid plate introduces the prospect of taking better decisions regarding a vehicle’s protection and is therefore very important. It can help with everything from preventing major damage to offering that extra level of off-road capabilities. Rock-strewn trails or dodging potholes on a highway? A decent skid plate is just the armor our car might need.