OEM skid plates vs after market?

ERROR504

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Feb 10, 2025
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2025 LC 1958
I been reading up on several posts that most people go with OEM ( PT228-60242 - Front Skit Plate/PT228-35241 - Transmission Skid plate) or something like RCI. The argument that I have read is that aftermarket like RCI mounts to the frame vs OEM front skids mount to the same brackets the radiator does. If the OEM ones are "bad" then why would Toyota have engineered it that way? Could I go wrong with either or just stick with OEM to be safe? I don't plan on doing hard core off roading, but I want to be covered as this is my daily driver. Any advice is appreciated from you all!
 
yeah you want to use skids that utilize the recovery points to spread the load. I broke the welds on my radiator support bracket pretty easy. and ive seen others do the same on here.
 
yeah you want to use skids that utilize the recovery points to spread the load. I broke the welds on my radiator support bracket pretty easy. and ive seen others do the same on here.
Ouch that sounds expensive and thank you for that info
 
I picked up the Toyota PT228-60242 + PT228-35241 skid plates. The biggest thing I foresee hitting is an occasional branch on the trail. If I thought I’d be balancing the vehicle on them, I think I’d consider something else. They’re better than what came on it, but they sure don’t scream “bulletproof”.
 
Iirc the rci engine skid mounts to the same lower radiator bracket as the oem plates. Letting you know so you’re not surprised. Reaching out to manufacturers and asking how they mount before you purchase is good practice. Victory4x4’s engine skid uses the factory recovery points to mount.
 
Iirc the rci engine skid mounts to the same lower radiator bracket as the oem plates. Letting you know so you’re not surprised. Reaching out to manufacturers and asking how they mount before you purchase is good practice. Victory4x4’s engine skid uses the factory recovery points to mount.
That’s one reason I went with Victory. Well made and an aluminum option. Plus you don’t need to drop them to change oil.
 
Iirc the rci engine skid mounts to the same lower radiator bracket as the oem plates. Letting you know so you’re not surprised. Reaching out to manufacturers and asking how they mount before you purchase is good practice. Victory4x4’s engine skid uses the factory recovery points to mount.
Ohh that’s a bit surprising. The install doc for them mentions the frame. This is good to know.
 
Does anyone know of a comprehensive compilation of aftermarket skid plate options—specifically attachment point (radiator support vs frame), how much the plate reduces/increases ground clearance, geometry (sloping or box-like Victory), metal composition and thickness? I'm looking for 1/4" aluminum, bolted to frame, not reducing clearance. LFD Offroad looks like it might work, and it has steel ribs that they claim helps it slide. Other options?
 
Does anyone know of a comprehensive compilation of aftermarket skid plate options—specifically attachment point (radiator support vs frame), how much the plate reduces/increases ground clearance, geometry (sloping or box-like Victory), metal composition and thickness? I'm looking for 1/4" aluminum, bolted to frame, not reducing clearance. LFD Offroad looks like it might work, and it has steel ribs that they claim helps it slide. Other options?

What I could find so far
 
Hi everyone, new to the forum. Long time owner of several 200 series and just made the switch to the 250. I have a 1958 that I am doing some additions to - tires, skid plates, etc. I’m not terribly mechanically inclined, so want to make sure I get this right.
My question is- I am adding the FE transmission and rear diff skid plate to match the dealer added front skid- are there directions or a video for the install on these plates? I see the directions for the front one but not the other two.
Thanks! Looking forward to a new era of LC.
 
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