Front skid plate replacement...

Does anyone know if 5th gen front skid plate will fit my 4th gen [6 cyl.]? I would like to replace mine it is all banged up on right side. I have seen 5th gen and later model OEM ones for sale and by picture they look the same; however they have been listed for 2010 and up.

 

WOW.....so nobody knows? Apparently I am the only one that has ever wondered this?

 

I googled it and it seems that the 5th gen front skid plate will not work on a 4th gen without heavy modification:

 

Thanks! I have done lots of fabricating over time and looking at pictures of stock plate they looked close. By the sounds of it it will be simpler to buy an aftermarket. Here are a couple of cars I built years ago.

 

Why not just get a 4th gen skid plate

 

I have looked and not found any.

 

Not OEM but probably better. https://rcimetalworks.com/product/03-09-4runner-full-skid-package-deal/

 

WOW .....I would hope it's better for the PRICE! $900 PLUS!

 

In fairness that’s the whole skid plate package, font, transfer case/transmission, gas tank, etc. Not just the front like you’re asking for.

 

The RCI front skid by itself is $314. Or $373 for the aluminum - saves some weight if you don't scrape rocks much.

 

Very doubtful a 5th gen would work on 4th gen.

Doesn't seem like a swap many people would try.

 

Coincidentally, I just took a side-by-side of one of my OEM skids and my RCI diff skid. Had them off for diff/transfer case oil changes and rust mitigation (cleaning & painting rusty areas w/ Rust Reformer).

This is after my first rock garden experience a few months ago. If you've done the CRUNCH/CLANG/SCRAAAAAAPE, you know what I mean. RCI product is a whole different animal in material, weight, and tolerance for punishment...but...the OEM skid did its job, though it's unclear how many more such adventures it can withstand.

I would caution anyone buying a diff skid for a 4th Gen from RCI that there's one bolt (driver's side frame rail, IYKYK) that is a true PITA. Having swivel sockets helps. You'll also likely need to put the skid on a floor jack to hold it during install b/c it's very, very heavy.

OEM (2nd skid from front, obviously not yet painted)


RCI