ARB plates with Differential drop.

ARB plates are not for everyone. I chose them because I desired more protection than the factory plates but didnt want the weight of the more popular and stronger skid systems.

These are not what you want if you are a rock crawler but for a Overland build or for the weekend warrior, they might be worth a look. I have a built Jeep for crawling so this build is more for trail running.

It is true that picking good lines and having a little luck usually is all you need to do but as luck always runs out at the least opportune time, I went with some better plates.

The ARB plates are twice as thick as the standard OE plates.




Again know what you want to do with your truck but if weight is a factor for you. Keep reading.

My first issue was I disclosed that the previous owner of my vehicle had done a differential drop (1inch). After thinking ARB had sent me the wrong kit and some advise from some friends on this forum I proceeded with the installation.

Differential drops are pandoras box when it comes to peoples opinions on if they are needed etc. I considered taking mine out but with three inches of lift, I like my CV angles, why not leave it.
I spoke to Slee Offroad (Toyota Specialist) multiple lift shops and two Toyota dealers who install lift kits and the consensus on the need for a diff drop was split right down the middle. Bottom line. I kept it.


A quick plug for Kwik Jacks. SO MUCH easier than wrestling with jack stands (which I still use for safety.

For those running a diff drop. The spacers you will use on the front (bash) plate will need to be the same size. You will only need the spacers for the front plate and only on the forward 2 and mid two pints of contact. Of course If dropping your plates 1 inch bothers you, dont do it but these plates will not work with a diff drop without them. I purchased M8 bolts of longer length for these points then used factory HDW for the rear two bolts which sets flush to the mount surface with no spacer. For the rest of the instal simply follow the ARB instructions and HDW>

Picture- Bolts are only finger tight.






Pros of these plates.
Improved protection over stock.
Light weight.
Excellent paint coating (no painting needed).

Cons-
Light weight- If your crawling you need LCI, BUDS, LFD etc.
Access ports- Front plate must be removed or modified to access oil filter.


Build your rig for what you want but at $425 these plates my be worth a look.

 

I have had these plates in mind for a while. Its nice to see someone's review on them with good pictures. I wonder if the front plate is as thick as the TRD Pro one.

 

Well, i dont know but I found several posting stating it is 1/4 inch Alum. What type 6061 vs ??? I dont know. I think either way (ARB vs TRDPRO) youre way better off than the stock tins.

 

Do you have a list of the extra hardware you had to buy?

 

Add to cons: 1. Crap instructions for 4Runner installation specifically…there were NONE! lol
2. Narrower and without side protection offered by some other manufacturers. Zero cat protection as well.
3. Low quality hardware. Go to a hardware store and buy good bolts. The stuff that comes with these skids is crap. Virtually all of it rusted rather quickly and I live in a DRY climate where rust grows very slowly.

Like you said, good for light stuff, but I highly recommend those who can afford better skids do so. I consider them temporary.