ARB Skid Plate System - just ordered!

[NLScooby]

According to a regional sales manager at ARB, I will apparently be the first consumer in the US to get their skid plate system. I know Christo Slee already has a set - and I emailed him about ordering me one, but he said there was a fitment issue and there were unavailable.

There still is a fitment issue, but since they are the only game in town and the 200's are kinda low slung, I am ordering a set in hopes that I will be able to modify it to fit. The issue is the transfer case plate does not fit due to this kit being the same one they sell in Australia and S. America for their diesel powered rigs. The transmission and transfer case lengths are apparently different on the diesel vs. gas models. The folks at ARB have confirmed that there are no immediate plans to make a proper fitting kit since the demand is essentially zero. I told them to pay attention as the prices of used 200's are starting to become more accessible to folks who really will want to off-road them - so I am likely not the last person to call them with inquiries on 200 series parts.

I should get the set in within 2 weeks. I will try to post some photos and document the modifications needed to make the T-case plate work.

Unless Christo can chime in and explain what needs to be done?

 

[Archtaan]

Definitely interested. Keep us updated. Are there any pics?

 

[pdxlc200]

I think Mark at MetalTech can get you the Iron Man ones.

 

[NLScooby]

Here's an image I believe to be correct.
I contacted MetalTech at one point several weeks ago asking about parts such as sliders and skids, but they didn't mention they could source the IronMan ones. But, in all fairness, I didn't specifically ask about those.

 

[Desert Nomad]

The stock 200 trans guard is the same across the 200 range (petrol-diesel) can someone post up a picture of the underside of a US 200 with guard on/off.

I've got the TJM skid plate for the trans it's a rectangular steel plate with wings on the rhs/lhs flared upwards. I can get clear photos and measurements and I'm sure if you can't find a decent trans guard it's pretty easy to get one fabbed up.

@NLScooby please post up some pics when get your hands on them. Even over here ARB haven't brought any skidplates for the 200

Don't mean to hijack the thread...

 

[NLScooby]

I'll post pictures when it arrives. The fitment issue is with the transfer-case skid plate, not the transmission plate (from what I understand).

 

[Atwalz]

For reference, here is shot from under with factory setup of 5.7L

 

[sleeoffroad]

We should have these in stock soon and we will internally change the kits to have the correct hardware and put notes on the install as to what needs to happen.

 

[NLScooby]

Excellent....and dammit!

See!? This is why it pays to procrastinate! I should have waited for Christo Slee's solution!

I am going to place an order for Slee's sliders shortly though.

 

[JamesC]

Very nice and will order once available.

 

[kreiten]

damn that is sweet!!! how much we looking at???

 

[arich]

Please, an oil filter window!!!!

 

[Canyonero]

We should have these in stock soon and we will internally change the kits to have the correct hardware and put notes on the install as to what needs to happen.


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Hi Christo, I stopped by your shop on Friday and I believe you guys are sending me a build estimate in the next couple days.

What's your opinion on these skids? Can you compare them to the Bud-Built skid plates for the FJ? I installed those when I had my FJ and they were definitely stout-but the LC's are so heavy, any skid plate is going to have to be solid to be effective.

Do you know when they will be in stock and pricing? Thanks in advance -Greg

 

[NLScooby]

I received the skid plates! I haven't put them on yet as I am addressing some surface rust appearance issues. I should have them on within a few days and I'll post an install review and some pictures (although Christo provided some great ones - and I don't have a lift at home!)

 

[MScruiser]

Wonder if there will be any compatibility issues with the Slee Diff Drop?

 

[shellb]

I can't wait to give my money and truck to Slee

 

[arich]

Hi Guys,
Friend of mine here in NY just received the Skid Plates from Slee and texted me the following question to post. ( I suppose MUD is blocked at work like most forums)

ARB skid Plates arrived. The installation instructions are fairly thorough and SLEE supplemented them well. It's not clear if the stock stone shields and side covers can go back on once the ARB kit is installed. The directions don't mention this, they only mention the ARB Bash plate, which is not a part of the skid plate kit. I don't want to leave this area exposed. (He has stock bumpers)
I would appreciate any insight from anyone on the forum and I will check with Slee when they open later today.
Thanks

From what I can read into this he's taking about the stock rock shield behind the stock bumper. Anthony

 

[MScruiser]

Well, they either fit or they don't. Put the ARB on, and then see if the shields are still compatible; if they are, then install. If not, well, you get the idea.

 

[sleeoffroad]

Never did install it on a stock truck, so not sure. Worst case I think would that they might need some minor trimming based on the pics above.

 

[NLScooby]

Hey guys,
I got around to installing my ARB skids after doing some surface rust removal and dealing with other fun challenges along the way.

(1) Regarding the factory plastic front wind deflectors, they cannot be reinstalled as there is interference and the fastener locations are no longer available (read covered) by the ARB. I ended up trimming mine to fit -actually, "trimming" is an understatement. The only part I could re-use was the foremost section forward of the tow-hook and a little to the outer-side. I'll take some photos as promised of the install.

(2) I could not complete my installation as my transmission skid plate was manufactured incorrectly! How in the world this part got by the QA department is a mystery. It looks good, but one of the brackets was literally welded in the wrong orientation. ARB is taking care of me by sending a new part to my home. As soon as I receive it I'll install it and then post some pictures.

Overall the skid plate system is stout! Much heavier than I was expecting and well made. I have to admit that I had the Arby's commercial running through my mind the entire time - where their tagline is "Arby's...We have THE MEATS!"....cause this stuff is beefy!

I do have a few minor complaints, but overall its quite a nice system.....and the only one out there currently available to us!