Skid Plate and Transmission mount...

XJNick · #1 (**permalink**) 02-14-2005, 09:28 PM

Hi,

So, I've been working under my wrangler lately, and have decided that I really don't like the big plate they used to mount the transmission and transfer case to the frame. It appears to be a mount and a skid plate all in one. I find it annoying because, being the large flat piece of metal it is, it blocks easy access to most of the drivetrain (the transmission, transfer-case, part of the front drive shaft, etc...).

It appears the entire drivetrain is supported by this pan mount, and if I want to, for example, remove the front driveshaft to replace U-joints, I have to remove the pan, leaving the drivetrain floating in the air on a jack (which scares me because there is not a good place to put a jack under this transmission while the pan mount is installed.

)

I was wondering if this plate type mount was an option on these TJ Wranglers or if that is how they all are. My thinking being that if it was an option, I might be able to locate a thinner crossmember to use to mount the transmission/ transfer-case with instead of this big pan. Of course, I suppose I could easily build a new cross member for the transmission/ transfer case and then modify the pan to mount OVER it, allowing easy removal of the pan when I need to work under the Jeep.

Thoughts, Ideas ?

Hopefully I'm not committing a "Jeep sin" by wanting to remove a skid plate :P

Thanks,
-Nick

Junkpile · #2 (**permalink**) 02-14-2005, 09:32 PM

I hate the factory skidplate when I'm trying to work underneath a Jeep. You're on the right track as far as building a tubular crossmember to support the drivetrain, and bolting a skidplate to it. That is nice, and like you said......much safer, and easier.

GaryMB · #3 (**permalink**) 02-15-2005, 01:35 AM

Those skid plates get especially hard to bolt back on after they take 21 years of abuse. If you have the tools, then I would definately reccomend building a tubular cross member that won't bend on rocks and get in the way.

Bounty__Hunter · #4 (**permalink**) 02-15-2005, 01:59 AM

There is no other factory option other than the large crossmember that blocks most all access to the drivetrain.

I plan on building a tubular crossmember that'll bolt to tabs welded inside the framerails. Each end will have round bushings similar to the leaf spring bushings. I'll then be able to run a flad skid across the belly with no protruding bolts, and be able to drop the skid and the drivetrain remain supported. Of course the motor mount lift and body lift will help get the tranny up for a flat belly skid.

XJNick · #5 (**permalink**) 02-18-2005, 11:57 PM

Hi,

Darn, I was hoping for a direct bolt on solution to save some time. Oh well, I'll just have to get creative with the welder this weekend...

Thanks,
-Nick