Lower Radiator Skid Plate - Neccessary? (2 Viewers)

[FIDO96]

I watched several YT vids when I was doing my alternator / idler pulley replacement and they all started with removing a skid plate/cover below the radiator. My 97 FZJ80 does not have one and I can only assume the PO removed it. Is this common? Should I hunt one down for no other reason than it should be there?

Here a pic of one currently on eBay.

 

[baldilocks]

It’s more of a splash guard and air channeler. I declare it necessary.

 

[ajax1]

I would say necessary as well.

 

[robnicko]

it also stops sticks & branches getting caught in the belts & if youve got a leaky oil pump cover catches the oil

 

[CrabCake]

Definitely helps with the mud/water when wheeling...my engine bay stays remarkably clean through the mud holes and assuming that it's in most part to this shield.

 

[jonheld]

Helps with engine cooling and prevents crap from getting where it shouldn't.
Don't leave home without it.

 

[bhsdriller]

Lots say necessary but i've never had one, not sure how well it helps with cooling like people say honestly
Save money and get a few tanks of gas for what they're asking

I could see for keeping out stuff while wheeling though

 

[bicycleagent003]

Don't go off roading without out, IMHO. Around town, on the highway, probably not absolutely necessary. I wouldn't leave home without it, either way. Just my two cents.

 

[Marco Lau]

Yes, it helps with cooling..

 

[davidp14]

It definitely helps with cooling. I've gone without mine for years but recently put it back and my temps are a couple degrees lower with no other changes.

 

[Corbet]

Shouldn't be that hard to find from a part out.

 

[subzali]

I have two turbo 80s that have run at least a combined 300,000 miles without one. I guess I should see why they were removed in the first place. I think I have one in the shed that came from the PO.

 

[Mag71k5]

I haven't had one in a while, if you have a functional cooling system, and you have a fan shroud, I cant see how this would make a huge difference.

I could see a perfect scenario where a stick finds a path to the v belts.

Message @swamp-thing, he has a load of 80 parts. He might have one laying around.

 

[davidp14]

My entire cooling system has been replaced including a modified blue clutch. Every part, every hose. I don't have any overheating issues but I did notice average temps dropped after reinstalling the radiator guard.

Mr T designed it to help funnel air to help with cooling and that's exactly what it does.

It also helps with splashing as Crabcake mentioned and it's good insurance against errant sticks.

There's no reason not to use it.

 

[swamp-thing]

I likely have one ( or two ) if anyone is in need just shoot me a direct message, thanks @Mag71k5 for the mention.