RCI vs GreenLane Skid Plates

[kerner]

I'm wanting to put some real skid plates on my LC and debating between the RCI and the Greenlane. I'll be getting the aluminum in either one, most likely the bare metal. Cost is comparable for the engine & transmission skids. The RCI has access holes for maintenance, although I suspect pulling them makes the job easier. I know both engine skids mount to the radiator mount - GreenLane says they do additional gussets to strengthen that area. I've got the GreenLane sliders so I know the quality of their work, have RCI stuff on my GX470 and have never had an issue.

Anyone seen both or have opinions on one of them? Also with aluminum is there any reason to powder coat them?

 

[Markarian421]

The Victory 4x4 plates mount to the frame at the recovery points instead of the radiator. If I upgrade my plates I’d go with those. They come in steel or aluminum.

 

[mkg]

One thing I dont love about the Victory, the rear bolt heads are fully exposed/protrude and would come into contact with anything below.. Greenlane are counter sunk and would clear obstacles.
I went with Greenlane because shipping was easier and no exchange rate. (Im in Canada) Got it powdercoated to be a bit more stealthy, although the raw may match the front valance better.

 

[kerner]

Ended up getting a deal on the upgraded Toyota skids. They're probably beefy enough for what I'll be doing and were a lot cheaper.

 

[dtxlcfe]

Ended up getting a deal on the upgraded Toyota skids. They're probably beefy enough for what I'll be doing and were a lot cheaper.

I also have these skids but the 2 front bolts mount to the radiator bracket which will break under enough stress. stupid design IMO and I will be looking to upgrade to victory. looks like the Greenlane mount this way as well and I know the RCI ones do too. understand you may not need as intense of an option for your use so whatever works for you, go for it.

 

[kerner]

I also have these skids but the 2 front bolts mount to the radiator bracket which will break under enough stress. stupid design IMO and I will be looking to upgrade to victory. looks like the Greenlane mount this way as well and I know the RCI ones do too. understand you may not need as intense of an option for your use so whatever works for you, go for it.

Yep, that's been my only concern about a lot of them, I'll probably try to fab some reinforcement in the future. For forest service roads and passes without crawling I'm not too worried, just want to protect more than the stock ones, especially over the transmission.