I have been looking at Artec because of weight and strength. I did not know Rock Hard made an aluminum kit and will be checking that out. I know with my Jeep I need to get an exhaust Y-pipe to delete the exhaust loop because it will sit too low for the Artec system. I have a 3.5" lift and a manual, so I was looking at the AFE y-pipe which adds $300 to this set up and the primary reason I hadn't done it yet; there are more choices if you have an auto transmission. I checked out the Artec system on Northridge's red Jeep, and it is a nice kit with all hardware recessed so I don't see any potential for bolt sheering/wearing down a bolt head or bolt heads catching. If you have frame mounted rock sliders you may have some interference with the Artec system, so be cognizant of that.

I haven't looked into what negatives there are from deleting the exhaust loop yet.

 

We ran into a few issues with the old gas tank skid as it was really beat up. But if your underside is fairly straight it shouldn't be more than hour or 2. Just make sure you have a really good nutsert tool.

 

The underside is fairly straight.
I do have a great nutsert tool.

As far as the long arm I think I will just need to trim the gas tank skid and move the rear gas tank frame support to another area. I think the front is the same short and long.
If I do a full skid I am pretty sure I need to trim the gas skid for the long arm bracket regardless.

 

What long arm kit do you run? If i remember correctly the front shouldnt have any issues with a long arm. And the rear indexes off of 2 of the stock gas tank mounts, but i dont think you would have an issue with it interfereing with the control arms. Ill see if JK-FREAK can chime in and post some pics.

 

Pics of JK-FREAKS Artec Skids

 

I am pretty sure the artec skid allows you to keep the loop. It just won't fit with exhaust spacers. People say you will loose power removing the loop. Everyone I have talked to that has done it said there is no performance loss or gain. At least in the seat. Rockhard kit you can add a shim to clear the exhaust crossover if you have spacers In the exhaust. So that one might be good so you don't need to do the exhaust.

 

Any heat issues?? Ever had to fix anything on the trail that was a problem with all to remove first? I've heard conflicting reports

 

Thanks for the response.
I really do like your skid plates.

What type of aluminum are you using in your skids?

 

Looks great. Are those painted or raw?

I have the evo long arm kit. The rear brackets sit right where the rear gas tank skid bolt goes thru.

 

5053 so it can be bent and formed without weakening or splintering upon impact when off road. It's then heat treated when we bake it in our powder coat oven.