Sooo... I recently did some work on my 13JKU control arms and front stabilizer *at about the same time* I decided to add a Rancho skid plate for my front D30...which just happened to be the newest install after the Smittybilt tranny skid I had installed awhile back. All was well for a little bit and then suddenly a few moments of grief happened during hard sway but just periodically. It began as a squeak, then some time later it developed into a sudden thump, then a grind, and so on, especially over those annoying speed bumps and driving habits I just cherish to have. It was maddening to inspect, remount and align the stabilizer, then distracted by control arm bushings, and hours thereafter staring at springs and so on...especially when the noise seemed to come from the direct front or right/rear. Then, tail in tow, I asked the Wifey for a favor after I had spent my due quality time in a fabric store and asked her to jump repeatedly on the front bumper - which led to the discovery of a near $200 loss.

It turns out that the Rancho skid for a front D30 is not compatible with the Smittybilt tranny skid. At some point during all the geometry of the Jeep's play, the Smittybilt's brackets began to EAT the Rancho plate. I have since uninstalled it and will be doing the HOBO-at-large thing everytime I see a Jeeper near me to be rid of it for a couple 20s as it is still quite functional in its almost-pristine condition. And, Yes, it was installed correctly with the required lift.

Expensive lesson learned.

 

My wife always says it this way " What your toys aren't playing with your other toys?" ….and sadly there have been times that two great ideas didn't work well together... lol!

 

Did it "clearance" itself by chance? You maybe able to clearance the Smittybuilt stuff a tad...

 

Thanks for asking, Rancho. Unfortunately, the Smittybilt plate is zeroed to the crossmember while its two upright brackets bolt straight to the front frame mount with no room to adjust. It's been one of those months....

 

Gah!
I know on other skid systems, people have been able to make it work :(