Gurvy522
Well-known member
- Joined
- Apr 17, 2024
- Threads
- 20
- Messages
- 251
- Reaction score
- 308
- Location
- Chicago, IL
- Vehicle(s)
- 2024 Tacoma Limited
- Thread starter
- #1
For those looking at mounting a skid plate, but missing the additional crossmember, the RCI x-member seems to suit the job just fine. A significantly cheaper alternative than the NYTOP piece.
Overall, I think the construction is fine, especially given the value. One interesting note is they decided to use u-nuts rather than tapping the holes on the x-member. I suspect this is to allow for a slight tolerance in lining up the bolts between the skid & crossmember, and given that most force, if any, will be exerted upon the bar itself from the plate in an upward motion (from hitting a rock etc), this design choice is perfectly acceptable.
Install is quite simple. First, prep the x-member by sliding the u-nuts onto it over the holes. Under the truck, remove the the stock front recovery points by removing the 4x M10 bolts on each side (2 per side). The x-member then mounts by sandwiching between the stock recovery points and the bolts being reinstalled.
Then, attach your skid plate with 6 bolts. The RCI crossmember doesn't come with extra bolts, so you'll need 2x M8-1.25 flange bolts. I found that 25mm length was perfect. I realized after that the fact that I'll need some washers as well, thought I had some M8s laying around the garage but will just have to make a quick run to Ace.
Once again, props to RCI for releasing this at a very competitive price point. Happy with it, and now I don't have to think about the "missing" attachment points of my skid.
Overall, I think the construction is fine, especially given the value. One interesting note is they decided to use u-nuts rather than tapping the holes on the x-member. I suspect this is to allow for a slight tolerance in lining up the bolts between the skid & crossmember, and given that most force, if any, will be exerted upon the bar itself from the plate in an upward motion (from hitting a rock etc), this design choice is perfectly acceptable.
Install is quite simple. First, prep the x-member by sliding the u-nuts onto it over the holes. Under the truck, remove the the stock front recovery points by removing the 4x M10 bolts on each side (2 per side). The x-member then mounts by sandwiching between the stock recovery points and the bolts being reinstalled.
Then, attach your skid plate with 6 bolts. The RCI crossmember doesn't come with extra bolts, so you'll need 2x M8-1.25 flange bolts. I found that 25mm length was perfect. I realized after that the fact that I'll need some washers as well, thought I had some M8s laying around the garage but will just have to make a quick run to Ace.
Once again, props to RCI for releasing this at a very competitive price point. Happy with it, and now I don't have to think about the "missing" attachment points of my skid.
Sponsored
