If you are an avid off-roader or just want to protect your vehicle from potential damage, you might want to consider installing a skid plate. A skid plate is a metal or plastic plate that covers the underside of your vehicle, shielding it from rocks, debris, and other obstacles that could harm your engine, transmission, fuel tank, and other vital components. In this article, we will explain what skid plates are, how they work, and why you need them for your vehicle.
What are Skid Plates?
Skid plates are specially formed metallic or plastic sheet plates that are fitted to the undercarriage of a vehicle, typically at the front end. The main purpose of skid plates is to protect the undercarriage from abrasion and collision with uneven surfaces.
Skid plates are usually made from abrasion-resistant materials, such as steel or aluminum. Steel skid plates are more durable and sturdy, but they are also heavier and more expensive than aluminum ones. Aluminum skid plates are lighter and cheaper, but they are also more prone to denting and bending. Some skid plates are also made from plastic, which is lighter and cheaper than metal, but also less protective and more likely to crack or break.
How do Skid Plates Work?
Skid plates work by creating a smooth and flat surface under your vehicle, allowing it to glide over obstacles without getting caught or damaged. Skid plates also absorb some of the impact and vibration that your vehicle experiences when driving over rough terrain, reducing the stress on your suspension and chassis. Skid plates can also improve the aerodynamics of your vehicle, by reducing the turbulence and drag that air creates when passing under your vehicle.
Skid plates are usually attached to your vehicle using bolts, welds, or clamps. Depending on the type and size of skid plate you choose, you might need to modify or remove some parts of your vehicle’s undercarriage, such as exhaust pipes, cross members, or brackets. You might also need to drill holes or cut slots in your skid plate to allow access to oil drain plugs, transmission filters, or other components that require maintenance.
Why do You Need Skid Plates?
Skid plates are essential for anyone who drives their vehicle off-road, whether it is for recreation or work. Off-road driving exposes your vehicle to various hazards that could damage or disable it, such as rocks, logs, stumps, roots, ruts, mud, sand, snow, ice, and water. Without skid plates, these hazards could puncture your oil pan, crack your radiator, dent your fuel tank, rip off your wiring harnesses, or bend your drive shafts. Any of these scenarios could result in costly repairs or even leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere.
Even if you don’t drive off-road often, skid plates can still be useful for protecting your vehicle from everyday wear and tear. For example, skid plates can prevent damage from speed bumps, potholes, curbs, parking blocks, debris on the road, or animals crossing the road. Skid plates can also extend the life of your vehicle by preventing rust and corrosion from moisture and salt that accumulate under your vehicle.
Conclusion
Skid plates are a worthwhile investment for any vehicle owner who values their safety and performance. Skid plates can protect your vehicle from various kinds of damage that could compromise its functionality and reliability. Skid plates can also enhance your driving experience by improving your vehicle’s aerodynamics and handling.