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Diesel Skids questions before ordering

SparkleTooth

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I want to finish this build and am need of skids. I have it narrowed down to the Metalcloak option or Rock Hard. With Black friday I can save a little on the MetalCloak system, but didn't necessarily want to go with Steel, so I am leaning towards Rock Hard, but obviously that means spending an additional 700-800 bucks.

First, I can't seem to get a good shot of either system in regards to the Fuel Filter. I can't tell if either system allows access to the Fuel Filter, can anyone confirm.

Secondly what is the consensus for how dealers handle repairs with jeeps with full skids. It was never an issue with my 4 Runner, but Jeep service is abysmal at best, and I fully expect them to complain about removing skids if they ever need to make a warranty repair underneath.

Would love to hear your thoughts on either the Rock Hard or Metal Cloak. Full disclosure I do have the MetalCloak 3.5 GC
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grimmjeeper

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No experience with Rock hard.

But I have the Metalcloak. There is a removable panel that gives you good access to the fuel filter. I've done one change so far and it's easy. They have you remove the wimpy stock skid during installation so it's just 4 bolts to remove the panel and the filter is right there.

As far as dealer maintenance, I don't trust them so I never have them work on it unless it's warranty work. So no advice there.
 

grimmjeeper

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Oh, and if you're going to do your own filter change do yourself a favor. Get a 28mm socket. They're not terribly expensive on Amazon.
 

rickinAZ

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Oh, and if you're going to do your own filter change do yourself a favor. Get a 28mm socket. They're not terribly expensive on Amazon.
Roy, I always keep notes for DIY jobs that list stuff like tools required. It helps me the next time I perform the same job. My notes say 27mm. Which is correct?
 

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I think they all have access to the fuel filter. I have Nextventure (excellent with the UHM and not much weight gain) and it's an easy to remove panel. No experience yet with the service end of things but will find out in a few weeks. I suspect I'll be charged something for the labor to remove and replace the cover (although I may remove it before I bring it in.).
 

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grimmjeeper

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Roy, I always keep notes for DIY jobs that list stuff like tools required. It helps me the next time I perform the same job. My notes say 27mm. Which is correct?
27mm is the oil filter I believe. The fuel filter is 28mm because why should it be easy? I discovered that little fact the first time I did the fuel filter change. I managed it with a 1-1/8" socket but it was a little sloppy. Fortunately, it's the same torque as the oil filter (18.5 ft-lbs) so I didn't break anything.
 

rickinAZ

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27mm is the oil filter I believe. The fuel filter is 28mm because why should it be easy? I discovered that little fact the first time I did the fuel filter change. I managed it with a 1-1/8" socket but it was a little sloppy. Fortunately, it's the same torque as the oil filter (18.5 ft-lbs) so I didn't break anything.
My bad. You’re right, it’s the oil filter I was thinking of. 😊
 

DEZELJP

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as @grimmjeeper said: Drop this door on Metalcloak the wimpy stuff is gone. Pull the door before you take it in, that part would be a simple job with no mess.

80D3BAF0-8BC0-4405-8920-CE368102F7A0.jpeg
 

Artec

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Have you considered the Artec Diesel bellypan ? Ours is made from 1/4" 6061 aluminum with 3/16 Zinc plated steel bracketry an has Stainless counter sunk hardware so no rust to worry about . Transitions between panels are very tight and virtually seamless so nothing to hang up on. It has a panel to remove to access the fuel filter and water separator. Once you remove the oem skids our kit will only gain about 50lbs total weight on the diesel while adding way more coverage . It's on sale for 15% off with free shipping currently

https://artecindustries.com/product...l-diesel-aluminum?_pos=3&_sid=3b7918136&_ss=r



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Ratbert

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Have you considered the Artec Diesel bellypan ? Ours is made from 1/4" 6061 aluminum with 3/16 Zinc plated steel bracketry an has Stainless counter sunk hardware so no rust to worry about . Transitions between panels are very tight and virtually seamless so nothing to hang up on. It has a panel to remove to access the fuel filter and water separator. Once you remove the oem skids our kit will only gain about 50lbs total weight on the diesel while adding way more coverage . It's on sale for 15% off with free shipping currently

https://artecindustries.com/product...l-diesel-aluminum?_pos=3&_sid=3b7918136&_ss=r



Jeep Wrangler JL Diesel Skids questions before ordering 1669153307796

Jeep Wrangler JL Diesel Skids questions before ordering 1669153307796


Jeep Wrangler JL Diesel Skids questions before ordering 1669153307796

Jeep Wrangler JL Diesel Skids questions before ordering 1669153307796

Jeep Wrangler JL Diesel Skids questions before ordering 1669153307796

Jeep Wrangler JL Diesel Skids questions before ordering 1669153307796


Jeep Wrangler JL Diesel Skids questions before ordering 1669153307796
Slick looking skid plates. Does that 50 pounds include the DEF skid?
 

Artec

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Ratbert

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Artec

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SparkleTooth

SparkleTooth

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I did consider Artec, that is until I saw the price when combined with the DEF skid, although I think I prefer it to MetalCloaks offering. Plus it is currently on Backorder from the looks of it.
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