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Steel VS Aluminum - Skid plates

T

Tacocamper

4️⃣ Gold
I was curious what everyone thoughts were on steel compared aluminum skid plates. I currently have a steel front skid but ordered the rest of the skids (transmission, transfer case and fuel tank) in aluminum. I would say personally I am not that aggressive off-road but just wanted to see how everyone else feels.
 
I've only hit my front skid once, and it was a drop off around a blind corner (no spotter). I would feel comfortable getting aluminum for weight's sake, plus it does offer enough protection for my needs. I guess it would depend on your current situation and what you may be doing in the future.
 
Weight difference (alum lighter) and cost difference (alum pricier). Steel is stronger and won't gouge like alum but if you're not going crazy rock crawling you should be fine. I've only got a TRD Pro alum skid and have whacked it several times and besides scratches it's still ok.

I do need to cover the rest like you.
 
taco_del_infierno said:
I've only hit my front skid once, and it was a drop off around a blind corner (no spotter). I would feel comfortable getting aluminum for weight's sake, plus it does offer enough protection for my needs. I guess it would depend on your current situation and what you may be doing in the future.
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Yeah that's my thought process, save on weight because in reality I too have only hit my front skid a couple times.
 
Rob Daman said:
Weight difference (alum lighter) and cost difference (alum pricier). Steel is stronger and won't gouge like alum but if you're not going crazy rock crawling you should be fine. I've only got a TRD Pro alum skid and have whacked it several times and besides scratches it's still ok.

I do need to cover the rest like you.
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better safe than sorry, I saw just how vulnerable the gas tank was and thought if I'm doing that might as well get the whole package.
 
I would have to agree. As mentioned, the aluminum is lighter weight and does have a heftier price tag - although typically excellent quality. Among our crew as well as most of the customers we handle, if they are avid off-roaders and handling challenging terrain - they typically go with steel skids topped off with a powder-coat finish.
 
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Tacocamper said:
Yeah that's my thought process, save on weight because in reality I too have only hit my front skid a couple times.
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That, and I've hit my front TRD Pro skid many times, and very hard. It shows but is still just as strong and functional as it was before all the dents and stuff.
 
I think the question is more do you need HD stuff or not. Aluminum will need to be braced more and require more material to even get close to support steel offers.
If you’re looking for a skin to protect in the off chance there is contact, sure, aluminum would be fine. But if you plan on hitting, just go with steel and be done. Of all the things you’re going to add to your truck as far as weight, the difference in the skids is negligible.
 
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