6th Gen 4Runner Aftermarket Skid Plate Guide

[TRD JON]

Drafting up this post as a guide/resource for new aftermarket skid plates as they become available.

Aftermarket manufactures will be quick to make some improved skid plates for the new 6th Gen 4Runner platform. As you all see them online, feel free to post them hear for everyone to see.

Aftermarket skids are typically made with either steel or aluminum and are sturdier than the composite OEM offerings. They also usually cover more than Toyota initially intended to protect making them more useful for those actually taking their 4Runner off the beaten path.

 

[Hound D]

Just received the set of Rival 4x4 skids this week. I’ll see how they bolt up on the weekend.

 

[Kupala MidSummer]

Hello,

I just got my TRD-Offroad two days ago. I thought that the TRD came with steel skid plates and just found out today that they came with plastic. Should I get steel or aluminum? I will be taking it all over the trails in MOAB and Alaska. Basically anywhere I can. I got the moonroof just so I can put in StarLink so I can work from the car for a few days.

 

[Hound D]

Nice! if you aren't doing crazy off-roading then skid plates aren't a must, but I don't plan on beating my rig up too bad and I am investing in a set. On any offroad trail, bottoming out on a random rock can do some damage. Skid plates are just another level of protection and a good insurance policy IMHO. I don't do any rock crawling, but even maintained fire roads or trails can have ruts, bladed washouts, or rock fall that come up seemingly out of nowhere. I've seen it happen where you can be cruising at 40 or so and you come around a bend, or over a rise in the trail, and there's a washout or rut that clacks your teeth together and belly slams your rig. It's a real bad day if theres a good sized rock(s) under you. Especially the sharp ones. Aluminum or steel is a preference. Mine are aluminum, 1/4" thick. lightweight but provides good protection for my needs. You may not need full protection, but I'd at least recommend a front skid to protect the oil pan at minimum. I picked this set up from Rival 4X4 and I'll see how they work out. Around 800 bucks for a three piece bundle right now, which is pretty darn cheap. Out of the box the plates are nice quality. I'll post some pics and a review when I slap them on.

 

[Hound D]

Just received the set of Rival 4x4 skids this week. I’ll see how they bolt up on the weekend.View attachment 2867

Got the skid plates installed and went out to Superstition for a test spin. The 3 piece plates definitely fit tight. I’d recommend starting from the rear and working forward. Leave all bolts loose until all the plates are in position. They are that snug.