4xe Rubicon Differential Skid plates

[pmarold21]

I’m looking to add front and back diff skid plates to my 2022 4xe Rubicon Without breaking the bank. Any suggestions (either for or to avoid)?

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[dpwracing]

I recently installed Metalcloak diff skids on my 2024 4xe Rubicon. While not cheap, I thought the quality and value was good.

 

[roaniecowpony]

I’m looking to add front and back diff skid plates to my 2022 4xe Rubicon Without breaking the bank. Any suggestions (either for or to avoid)?

How big is the bank?

 

[pmarold21]

In the price range of MetalCloak and RockHard 4x4.

 

[DewHawk]

I have RC plates on mine. They’re about $100 a piece but the metal is ridiculously strong for the money. I’ve come down on them pretty hard and no signs of them failing.

 

[C.Sco]

I did Metalcloak diff skids. They match the color of my MC suspension and skid plate system, which is the most important thing to consider.

Haven't gotten around to installing the front one yet (since it requires swapping the diff cover too, I just haven't had time), but the rear one has been on for a few months and survived a beating on the Rubicon Trail very well.

 

[GATORB8]

I’ve been beating on the MCs for just under two years now, with no complaints. Heads up the MC diff cover fill holes are high so you don’t need to fill till it spills like normal.

I had to use modified hardware to get the old front version to work (before the correct one was released), make sure you select the front version for our axles (no drain plug)

 

[pmarold21]

I’ve been beating on the MCs for just under two years now, with no complaints. Heads up the MC diff cover fill holes are high so you don’t need to fill till it spills like normal.

I had to use modified hardware to get the old front version to work (before the correct one was released), make sure you select the front version for our axles (no drain plug)

Thanks. I really like the MetalCloak but they don’t have one for the front diff of a 4xe and I want them to match.

 

[Zandcwhite]

I realize for a while Jeep was putting drain plugs on the bottom of the dog that were vulnerable, but beyond that, what is the point of a diff skid? Aside from peeling a stock cover, which could use an upgrade for sure, I've never seen a diff damaged from dragging on rocks? My XJ probably had a dozen Rubicon trips along with dozens of other Sierra rock trails over the course of a decade and the diffs were fine? Maybe a few scratches but definitely not any damage that would compromise integrity or cause leaks. It seems like the aftermarket invented a need for something that really isn't needed in my opinion. Sure if you have an '18-'20 with the drain plug on the bottom I could see the functionality, but beyond that I don't think it's doing much but costing some ground clearance.

 

[kah.mun.rah]

I am using the Rancho skids. They are about $170 for each axle. To answer your question @Zandcwhite the reason I use them is to help glide the difs over rocks since there are a lot of areas and edges of a stock dif that can catch or hang up on something. I have seen a high-centered rear diff put extra stress on the front axle and twist an axle shaft or break a ring gear tooth. Nothing is perfect and every trail is different but IMO best to keep things moving forward as smooth as possible on the trail.

 

[C.Sco]

Thanks. I really like the MetalCloak but they don’t have one for the front diff of a 4xe and I want them to match.

My Rubicon is a 4xe as well, I have the MC front diff cover already sitting in a box somewhere, whenever I get around to installing it I'll let you know if I run into any compatibility issues.

I did hold it up to my diff though and couldn't readily identify any interference or alignment issues, it appears like it should work okay

 

[GATORB8]

Thanks. I really like the MetalCloak but they don’t have one for the front diff of a 4xe and I want them to match.

The revised version should work. I made the original work on mine. Just saw they released a stock diff cover version, too.

I have the 21+ version sitting at home, I have the 18-20 installed (for almost two years).

 

[C.Sco]

Just saw they released a stock diff cover version, too.

That must be brand new, I don't remember seeing that on their site last week. I'm going to order that now and probably sell the version I bought before. Thanks for the heads up!

 

[pmarold21]

Thanks everyone. Decided to go with the DV8 version for a bit more coverage in the back and I like the look. Seemed to have good reviews and will definitely fit the 4xe Rubicon both front and back. Thanks again for the insights and discussion. This is a great forum!

 

[GregATX]

How does the weight play out with the additional armor? The 4xe is already very heavy so curious to hear people's experience

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