I need some help. I've been planning out my build ever since I got my jeep, it changes a lot, but for what I will be doing, I think ive got it pretty solid at this point. I am planning to go with a tummy tuck in the future, but I don't know what skid plate I should use. I have an 01 with a 4.0L, and an NV3550. I will be going with the JB conversions 1310 CV yolk SS SYE kit, tom woods driveshaft and savvy control arms. I also currently have a JKS 1"MML and 1.25" Savvy BL. How high will I be able to tuck my transfer case up, and what skids would I be able to/not be able to use? Thanks
Proper High clearance skid plate?
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xxdabroxx
TJ Addict
I'm in a similar boat so I've curious to see what you end up with. I have a standard SYE but figure I'd have to go to a SS when I get to that point.
I've got this setup bookmarked: UCF Deep-Cover Skid Plate System
I've got this setup bookmarked: UCF Deep-Cover Skid Plate System
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You should be able to go with the highest clearance skids.
There are two I recommend looking into.
The Savvy UAM is very popular, but is no longer made for manual early TJs. If you can find one, it’s a great option.
Undercover Fabworks makes an ultra high clearance skid plate that has many options. You can buy it in 3/16” or 1/4” steel or 1/4” or 3/8” aluminum. With a body lift and perhaps a LoPro mount, you can gain an impressive amount of clearance. They also make a matching engine skid.
There are two I recommend looking into.
The Savvy UAM is very popular, but is no longer made for manual early TJs. If you can find one, it’s a great option.
Undercover Fabworks makes an ultra high clearance skid plate that has many options. You can buy it in 3/16” or 1/4” steel or 1/4” or 3/8” aluminum. With a body lift and perhaps a LoPro mount, you can gain an impressive amount of clearance. They also make a matching engine skid.
The savvy UAM is nearly flat, will I be able to go with the flat skids? or will I need to start cutting and trimming the belly? I am trying trying to avoid any major cutting if I can be
Neither of the systems require any significant body modification as long as the correct parts are purchased. I don’t think you can go truly flat without significant body modifications, but I don’t know of any skid plate system that is truly flat. I believe the Savvy UAM and the UCF plates both hang down about an inch from the frame.
Check out the link @xxdabroxx linked. It should describe what you need to do pretty well.
Thanks, thats probably what i'll go with since it has the skids all in one, I was planning on going with the ucf engine skid so this works out alot better for my wallet
I installed a Savvy system on my '99 and the UCF on my '04 LJ. Having installed other skid systems, I can say with confidence that Savvy is by far the best. It was a PIA to get right, but once I did, it was awesome. I had 18" of clearance on 33" tires.
By comparison, my UCF extra clearance aluminum skid has 17" on 35" tires. That said, the UCF skid is still nice and has stood up well to abuse. If you get one, don't be afraid to go aluminum.
Bummer that you're not closer though. I have a Early Savvy skid for sale. It was installed for a short while, but removed for another project.
Pitties98TJ
New Member
IRUN, I'm sure you've sold that early Savvy skid by now, right? I'm looking to get a high clearance skid soon, and I know Savvy are hard to find now.
Just a side note for anyone wondering, I went with the UCF ultra high skid on 3- 3.5" spring, 33s, had 18-19 " of ground clearance
Pretty sure it's in my garage and number next to be installed after I get these damn front LCAs off.
I keep waiting for this. It's like a sequel that never gets released!
Good choice! I've been running the UCF skid, going on 8 years now. It's taken a beating and held up very well. Far better than my previous steel skid.
jesseshoots
TJ Enthusiast
Which one did you go with (material and thickness)? I'm looking at doing the 1/4" aluminum Ultra-high clearance one. My only hesitation is that I have a standard sye. I've got a mml sitting in the garage waiting for me to find the time to put it in.
ErikOffroad
TJ Enthusiast
I have a 4.0 with the 42le and 231. With the 1 1/4 inch body lift I fit mine in flat with a diy skid plate. Didn’t have to modify the tub at all.
Still have a little room to spare!
Still have a little room to spare!
I went with the extra clearance, 1/4" aluminum. FWIW, I'm at around 17.25" of clearance at the skid, on 35"tires. It doesn't hinder me, but I do wish I would have done the ultra. That little extra clearance would be nice, especially on a LJ.
I went with the 3/8" aluminum ultra high from UCF after bending the crap out of a 1/4" steel version. Been very happy with it.