Nope, we just use a tube of RTV

 

That keeps it from rubbing the tub and tearing up the paint?

 

they are bolted to the tub, its not going to move. But yes RTV will protect the paint and also keep dirt out from between the two surfaces

 

I think so. A "real" set of rock rails tied into the frame would have prevented it.

 

I'm no physics nerd but, there's a big difference between several thousand pounds of JK coming down on 1/4" steel and a bullet...what can stop a small caliber, won't resist bending forces.

 

There's people on this form who took out other vehicles with aftermarket bumpers and leaving nothing but a scratch. 1/4 inch plate is extremely strong. And rolling the jeep of a cliff it's for rock damage.

 

So I thought I would post up the results of removing the rock rails.

Looks like there are only 2 issues.
1) Dent and chipping paint in the middle of the passenger door from the picture I posted above. Not much of a dent but enough to where the paint cracked and is chipping at the joint. Suggestions? I am thinking of getting some touch up paint, breaking the chips off and filling the space with touch up paint. Then when putting skins on making sure that spots gets covered really well with RTV. Might reach out to my buddy who owns an auto body shop and see what technique he suggests for making sure this doesn't become an issue down the road.
2) The slight bulge in the panel at the lower door hinge. Tried to push this back but seems pretty stuck there. Thinking that skins would force this to go back straight.

I did work on fixing the rail. I have it 95% of the way fixed. Just need to get the tabs bent back the same way as the driver side rail. I will probably sell them very cheaply to someone if anyone is interested. They were much heavier than I expected them to be! I think my father had a good point that I was lucky to have broken the rock or it might have been worse!

Chris: I sent you a PM, my inbox is now empty again so you can try to reply again. Also, what is the best way to reach you? I want to get the skins and sliders on order but I have a couple questions. Thanks!

 

When using RTV, I would leave a few openings on the bottom to let water drain out from behind the armor...

 

Thought I would post some before and after pictures of the rock for the sake of finishing off the story. I will be ordering the Evo Skins and Rails on Thursday.