I realize that this is an old thread but the topic could still be of interest. As I look at the design of the "rear hitch skid plate" something stands out to me. It looks to me that the small angled area could "deflect and protect".... if you are going in reverse. However, when going forward, the bottom edge of the skid plate looks to me like it will dig in and increase the possibility of the hitch getting hung up. As with all things, there are trade-offs that must be considered if the intent is to use this device as a skid plate or to protect our carriers. In a previous post someone suggested a stinger. Perhaps a less radical solution would be a bar that attaches to the frame rails, and extends back less than a bumper, would provide the protection needed as well as act as a skid plate.

My $.02 worth

KG6SLC aka Eugene

 

I made one similar and it has held up great against the rocks and doesn't get hung up on anything.

 

Sweet Post , and a picture tell a thousands words . . .

Great Idea .... and it works . .

 

I actually picked one of these up for the Rubi trip back in July. Worked perfect. I actually still have it mounted as added protection whenever I don't have/use the ball hitch just in case someone decides to rear end me...

 

Multiple use, any vendors picked this up yet ? I'd buy one, ideally same extended length as the OP with a T-bar on top to add some width for daily driving protection and use as a step. Ideal for on and off roading.

 

These are pics of the hitch skid as-is. It's about 5.75 inches from the pin hole centerline to edge of skid. I also have hitch extensions that I'll sometimes use with it but those aren't pictured since 90% of the time I just have it mounted like this for DD if I don't have the ball hitch in.

Added protection in the rear but doesn't stick too far out so you're not too worried about getting whacked in the knees and/or nutz every time you're loading stuff in and out.

Worked fine on the Rubicon coming off ledges. No problems getting hung up while crawling up even with just 2.5" lift and 35's.