Welded vs bolt on sliders (1 Viewer)

[skey44]

Hi guys I’ve seen previously that welded on sliders were not a good idea due to rust issues on the GX 460. I have a local fabricator that did some really nice sliders on my previous tundra but he welded them on and they were awesome. I’m definitely not against them being permanently attached. Just wondered if certain years or more the 470 were prone to rust or was it just any platform that may have a problem with welded on sliders, or is the problem not to do with rust but another issue? I only ask because for him it’s easier to weld on, I’d have to leave my car for a little bit for him to fab up some bolt on plates. And if I did bolt on I’d probably just order something already out there and not contribute to a small local fabricator. Thanks for the insight in advance.

 

[Rednexus]

Welding vs. bolting probably doesn't make too much of a difference for rust, especially if you are in a non-salty climate. IMO, the biggest detraction to weld-on sliders is the inability to either return the vehicle to stock easily or to easily remove and re-paint/re-coat the sliders. My sliders, despite never hitting a rock, are getting pretty ragged after <2 years of use, as they get so much dirt/sand/rocks/salt kicked up on them by the tires. I'm going to pull them off and re-coat them later this year. I would personally only use weld-on slides for a dedicated trail rig where there would never be a need to take them off.

I'd just have your local fabricator make bolt-on sliders with a frame plate. He should be able to make a cardboard template for the frame and build them off of that, without leaving the GX there for very long.

Pic of my Apex sliders (for a KDSS-equipped 150-platform vehicle - I added 6-7 rivnuts to each side of the frame in my 120 and they fit perfect). If you don't go with your local guy, these should bolt right up and are great sliders for the price.

 

[helocat]

Not a fan of weld on sliders unless we have to, like an FJ40. For the GX470 bolt ons just make since as they exist. Take our Metal-tech 4x4 bolt on sliders. We actualy designed and built these before anyone else offered any armor for the GXs. It was actualy right about the same time we developed the oringal bolt on airbag conversion kit for for the suspension.

Main reason we dont like weld on is the potential for cracks to develop around the welds on the frame. Its also surprising how many bolt on sliders end up in the 2nd market, ie you can take them off later move to another truck or sell, vrs they go away with the truck like weld on. Of course we build and STOCK these at www.Metaltech4x4.com So I am a bit biased!

OPOR Lexus GX470 Sliders (Raw Steel)

These Lexus GX470 sliders use our signature rub rail design to provide the most ground clearance. Order these high-quality 4x4 sliders for your truck today.

metaltech4x4.com

 

[skey44]

Love the replies, dedicated trail rig lol. Maybe I should just try and massage the steps into shape! Any recommendations there?

 

[skey44]

I’m more of a “highway boys” but sometimes I send. Just one more point of reference. Love alt country right now
I like those slee sliders on this truck. I’ll add a reference pic of “Daisy” too.

 

[skey44]

And maybe just… who am I kidding why add armor for a mall crawler you’re keeping?