Skid Row Automotive

[ToeJam]

I actually bought their skid plates used from a fellow PNWX'er, but I must stay they look outstanding. They are very heavy duty, and the craftsmanship looks great. All of the bolt holes line up perfectly, and we all know how many vendors have problems with that!!!

I did have a problem with interference against my exhaust pipe (which is common enough SR references it in their directions). Sometimes the crossover pipe from the R-side of the X swings low enough to push up against the plate. It is a variance of Nissan, not a design flaw of SR. I was very impressed when I emailed them to ask additional questions and they responded the same day (a Sunday!). Especially since I specifically told them I bought the skid plates used from a buddy.

Hopefully someone can add their experiences purchasing equipment from them. As for their quality and customer service - It is top notch!

[rrdstarr]

I got my rear skid last week and didn't get it put on this weekend! Hope you'll forward those help directions if I need them this week when I do my install!

[superjens]

So what did you end up doing about the pipe? Is it resting on the skid plate now?

[ToeJam]

The fix is to place pressure along one side of the pipe (right) and then to heat where the cross-over pipe meets the left exhaust pipe. Once it is heated enough, the pressure will slightly push the pipe up and away from the skid plate.

I'll post pictures tomorrow....

[Philosopher]

Glad to hear it. Eric and Skid Row kick ass.

[ned946]

Same problem. I finally cut a small rectangle in the area of the crossover.

I have recently had my plates re-powdercoated and had one observation. If you run your A/C a lot (like here in So Cal) there is quite a bit of water accumulation in the passenger side of the skid plate corners...and I had some rust. I placed a drain hole next to the lip near the obtuse angle, to try to help reduce rust.

Eric and those skid plates do kick ass!

[rrdstarr]

Can you post pictures of your cut out and drain hole? Please?????

[ned946]

Originally posted by rrdstarr
Can you post pictures of your cut out and drain hole? Please?????

Sure thang.......

I don't know if it is the best solution (the cut out), but I'm not too concerned about protecting the exhaust cross over and if there is something(an rock etc) in this area....I'd be more concerned with the rear diff...not to mention all the stuff the rock hit gettin this far back!
I do recommend the AC drain highly....if you use your AC much.

[rrdstarr]

Thank you kind sir! My Ac kicks on alot because I use the recirc button. I have that little pool of water under the truck!

[ToeJam]

That cut-out freaks me out, but the drain hole is a good idea. Here in the Pacific Northwest, we're always using our AC - Whenever we're defrosting our cars from all the moisture!!!

[ned946]

He he....
The damn buzzing freaked me out!

Actually, I was toying around with placing a sequence of rows of holes up on the 2nd plate. I wanted to improve cooling with the plates on. Never did it cuz I couldn't get the plate to fit in my drill press....probably just as well...

[ToeJam]

Here is the right side of the rig. The bulge in the middle of the cross over is what pushes up against the skid plate. Apply pressure (SR recommended using a jack) near the bend as it cross over to the left side.

[ToeJam]

Here is where the cross over pipe attaches to the left side exhaust and continues aft to the muffler. Notice the blackened part of the pipe where the shop applied the torch.

I don't have a torch and don't have a clue about mufflers, so I had a local muffler shop do the work. The process took all of 10 minutes and they didn't charge me anything.

I started with about 1.5" of clearance between the pipe and driveline, now I have about .75".