Excuse me if this is a dumb question, but why hasn't someone created a transfer case skid that provides more ground clearance? Looking under my unlimited the lowest place under the middle of the rig is the transfer case skid cross member, it uses about 2 inches of space. It seems like there should be a way to gain back a least 1.5 inches with a better design for the skid plate. Am I missing something? That would be the more than you would gain by going to 35 inch tires from 33s. On a long wheel base rig like these that would be a big change.
Tom

 

i believe my ft lift came with a replacement skid im not exactly sure thats what it is tho

 

Seems to me I recall that River Raider made a system that gets about an inch and 3/4 on a 4 door.

 

If I could pull up the gas tank in addition to the skid, that would be the best.

 

You could gain a tiny bit of clearance. But then if you ever put a deent int he skid plate, that dent will go straight into the t-case. Which then kind of defeats the purpose of the skid plate.

 

Right now there are 2 inches between the skid and the tc. With a stout 1/4 inch skid that could be reduced, I would hope. If you put a 2 inch deep dent in a skid you probably have bigger problems. Lifting the skid an inch would give as much clearence as moving from 33s to 35s, and with these long wheel base rigs, that's a key area to add space.
Tom

 

something like this....it follows the crossmember's shape and extends out 16". the lip gives it strength and a little deflection action. same distance skid to trans, just less hanging down and smoother.

 

i like that skid... how much extra room does it give you?

 

i gained almost 3/4" and lost the 'shovel'!

 

That is awsome... 3/4 is a big deal with the 4 doors. Nicely done.