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I test drove a FX4 today and noticed the gas tank skid plate was made of plastic. I don't like that. They could of done better then that. What is that going to protect.
kinda why im not going FX4. i figured i eventually will change the shocks to something better and the OEM skids arent great so i rather put the money toward better ones. since im not playing on doing any hard offroad driving like i do in my raptor im not in a rush for them anyway
Look at my sig. The firm that makes my skid plates (RCI) also makes an aluminum plate for the tank. Buy the FX4 and the Al plate. It uses the factory mounts.
I think all the truck manufacturers have been using plastic skid plates for a while now. I like having something there as you can often feel the plates scraping before real damage is done. And a plastic plate does offer some protection as evidenced by the bottom of my ATV.
Likely same as 2014 (and prior) skids, non-metallic but tougher composite material than ABS plastic. In any case, replaced all my OEM skids with RCI .250 5052. No worries now for anything I'll encounter on mild to moderate off-pavement roads, i.e., not 4wd jeep trails. Suppose it'll be awhile before specific fit aftermarket gear for 2015 f150 is available.
Likely same as 2014 (and prior) skids, non-metallic but tougher composite material than ABS plastic. In any case, replaced all my OEM skids with RCI .250 5052. No worries now for anything I'll encounter on mild to moderate off-pavement roads, i.e., not 4wd jeep trails. Suppose it'll be awhile before specific fit aftermarket gear for 2015 f150 is available.
I like those! How much were they?
Also noticed that the transmission is only protected by less that plastic, it felt like thick fabric when I was under there today.
I know they make tough plastic these days but I believe I prefer metal.
Does anyone know what year they changed from Steel to Plastic?
I could of sworn my 2012 FX-4 was Steel. I know my 2001 Off Road Pkg. & my 2007 FX-4 were steel.
My 2014 4x4 Lariat didn't come with them & my Dealer through in a Set of Aluminum ASFIR
Skid Plates. There are 4 plates. The Front two cover each other & have to be removed for oil changes.
These are very Heavy Duty.
Plastic Skid Plates would be very disappointing but I'm sure Ford has tested them out.
I've been 4-Wheeling since 1971, First one a 4 W.D. Ford Bronco. Large tires, Roll Bar, Double shocks on Front end, Hurst 4 wheel shifter, Dana 44 with EQ. lock, 302 Cu. In.. Twin Cherry Bomb Mufflers.
If you really think about it, how many times have you actually had to use your skid plates? If you know what you are doing you can avoid most situations that may ruin you day?
Plastic Skid plates may be Subjective. I know how hard it is too change from Steel to plastic?
My dealer said my ASFIR cost them $700.00 for the 4 plates. The G. M. was surprised at the costs & just said they were happy to do it for me.
I got a little off topic, sorry i did.
just surprised they were plastic.
Last edited by Platinum T.C.; 01-01-2015 at 11:12 PM.
What is "water jet aluminum" -they say is made of that metal-which means what?
Another "thing" about a skid plate design-if it is so stout that forces are transmitted to other areas around expensive components-then you have possibly caused more damage than was prevented?
MY point is that the attachment location matters just as much as does the material skid plates are made from. All to say it's not as simple as it looks to have the "ultimate indestructable skidplate"?
01-01-2015, 07:18 PM
Skid Plate
