NEW Underbody Protection!

[CO Hummer]

Adam and I paid Neil (H2Oguy) a visit on Friday. He has his skid plate and midrails production-ready so we got #1 and #2 off the line. #3 is already reserved for a certain Limey. We elected to take the stuff without powder coating since that is for bling-bling guys like Horace.

This stuff is unbelievable. The factory skid weighs around 20 lbs. The new skid is over 90. The factory cage is around 20-25lbs. The new midrail is over 100 lbs.

Here are some pics. You may now drool.....

Skid Plate:

[CO Hummer]

Skid Plate Installation. It requires a jack or a couple of people since it's so heavy.

[CO Hummer]

Detail view of top side design:

[CO Hummer]

Installed:

[CO Hummer]

Strong, eh?

[CO Hummer]

The Midrails replace the factory cage. Here is the installation before the skid plate is attached. The skid plate overlaps the from of the midrails.

[CO Hummer]

Both Installed:

[CO Hummer]

Here's how the skid meets (overlaps) the midrail:

[CO Hummer]

Rear View:

[ShaggyX]

Holy crap! Now that is some underbody protection. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

[CO Hummer]

Lastly.....I used some bungee cords to strapped the original stock cage to the midrails from comparison:

[La.Swamp Lobster]

Now just mass produce them for the H2 offroading crowed!

[PARAGON]

I predict more high-centering. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Adam in CO]

A few more...

[ShaggyX]

Originally posted by PARAGON:
I predict more high-centering. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif Not like dragging it across a rock would cause any damage with that setup.

[Adam in CO]

Another

[CO Hummer]

Note - The pic that Adam posted is one that doesn't yet have that tcase shield over it.

[CO Hummer]

We have a surplus of used factory skid plates which will be available in the H2 classifieds soon. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Adam in CO]

Email me the pics you took, please.

[PARAGON]

Originally posted by Adam in CO:
Email me the pics you took, please. Please do, because Adam's pics suck. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[timgco]

Kick ass!!!!! Very nicely done!

I have questions on how they mount. Were the factory bolts/ locations used again or was everything bolted all the way through?

the reason I ask is because I can remmeber on our last trip when someone had thier rubber Duck UC protection falling off due to the threads stripping out and the bolts bending or shearing off. My stock skid and UC protection crap was bent to hell and I also lost a couple of bolts due to them pulling out. I have no doubt that stuff won't bend or even dent, but will it stay on due to the factory weld nuts and mounting points?

[DDWH]

Looks awesome..nice and beefy! http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[CO Hummer]

Originally posted by timgco:
Kick ass!!!!! Very nicely done!

I have questions on how they mount. Were the factory bolts/ locations used again or was everything bolted all the way through?

the reason I ask is because I can remmeber on our last trip when someone had thier rubber Duck UC protection falling off due to the threads stripping out and the bolts bending or shearing off. My stock skid and UC protection crap was bent to hell and I also lost a couple of bolts due to them pulling out. I have no doubt that stuff won't bend or even dent, but will it stay on due to the factory weld nuts and mounting points?

The Midrails are bolted thru the frame with nuts so that will not be a problem at all. If a bolt breaks, you can just replace it. I bought some grade 8 bolts to carry along as backups, just in case.

The Skid uses the factory mounting holes. In a matter of a few minutes we tapped these holes and put in larger sized bolts. Also, on the skid, you can use bolts/nuts on mid section. The outside two holes can be accessed from on top. I elected not to at this point so that it can be removed easier. But again, I have backup bolts that I could put on.

[CO Hummer]

Midrail bolts:

[Fubar]

Outstanding you guys should be even more unstoppable.

Any idea on price and availability to the general masses?

Are these units going to be made to order (per order basis) or will there be a limited number in stock?

[CO Hummer]

Originally posted by Fubar:
Any idea on price and availability to the general masses?

Are these units going to be made to order (per order basis) or will there be a limited number in stock?

Those are questions for Neil (H2Oguy). I think his midrails and skids are ready for order by general masses.

[HUMMERDOGG]

Originally posted by CO Hummer:
Here's how the skid meets (overlaps) the midrail:

Looking at that picture (which I can't get to post) , is there any chance of the skidplate getting caught up if you are backing up over an obstacle? Regardless, very well thought out and super beefy...

[CO Hummer]

Originally posted by HUMMERDOGG:
Looking at that picture (which I can't get to post) , is there any chance of the skidplate getting caught up if you are backing up over an obstacle? Regardless, very well thought out and super beefy...

I thought about that too. The pic is a little deceiving. It's only about an inch of overlap. But we'll see..

[H2Oguy]

Thanks for the comments all,

Tim, All the factory mounting places are used for the Front Skid plate and the Mid Rails. The Mid Rails have 8 additional through bolts through the frame. With some modifing to the H2 you can use through bolts fairly easily on the Front Skid plate as well. I will provide new bolts and recommend that these products be installed with the new hardware. But modification is not necessary for the install.

I am production ready on the Front Skid Plate and Mid Rails but still have some final details to address before making them available to the masses. These products will be available after the Moab trip in April.

I have several other pieces of equipment that I am working on and trying to get completed for unvailing at the Moab trip so my time is very limited right now. However anyone that is interested in having a set for Moab I need to know as soon as possible, if there is going to be any chance of getting them done for the trip.


Neil

[Fubar]

thanks for the update Neilhttp://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[KenP]

If that midsection uses the stock mounting holes, then it should fit a lifted H2. Right? Just want to make sure before ordering one. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[CO Hummer]

Originally posted by KenP:
If that midsection uses the stock mounting holes, then it should fit a lifted H2. Right? Just want to make sure before ordering one. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

I asked Neil the same question -- if I were to put a 6" Fabtech lift on. He said it would not fit directly. Custom tweaking would be required.

[KenP]

Originally posted by CO Hummer:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by KenP:
If that midsection uses the stock mounting holes, then it should fit a lifted H2. Right? Just want to make sure before ordering one. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

I asked Neil the same question -- if I were to put a 6" Fabtech lift on. He said it would not fit directly. Custom tweaking would be required. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>How much tweaking?

Tell him to do it and I'll get one. So will others. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[timgco]

Originally posted by PhilD:
You'll need to lower the whole cage to be effective on a lifted H2. The rear mount will have to be different too. If one of the CO guys gets a lift, I'm sure Neil could make up one easily enough.

LOL! Do you actually hit the UC on a lifted monster like that?

[Planohummer]

When can we get pics of you changing the oil?

[ShaggyX]

Originally posted by Planohummer:
When can we get pics of you changing the oil? An H2 owner changing the Oil? Are you mad? http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[ShaggyX]

Originally posted by PhilD:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by ShaggyX:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Planohummer:
When can we get pics of you changing the oil? An H2 owner changing the Oil? Are you mad? http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif </div></BLOCKQUOTE>H2 owners do it all the time, they have more than enough clearance to easily get underneath their vehicles, unlike some Johnny Foreigner rigs http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif </div></BLOCKQUOTE>I can fit under my 240sx to change the oil, so I would imagine the Xterra will be a piece of cake. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[CO Hummer]

Originally posted by Planohummer:
When can we get pics of you changing the oil?

Haha. I did make sure one could change the oil without removing the skid plate. It is isn't a problem. I checked, not because I was going to change it, but because I didn't want the Jiffy lube teenagers to have to removed a 90lbs skid and strip my bolts out.

[KenP]

Originally posted by PhilD:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by ShaggyX:
I can fit under my 240sx to change the oil, so I would imagine the Xterra will be a piece of cake. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif Shaggy, you could fit under a F1 car with room to spare http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif </div></BLOCKQUOTE>LMFAO!!!11

[Sewie]

H2Oguy -

Great work. Those look solid. Any plans on doing something for the H3's?

[H2Oguy]

Yes, but it will be a while. I have to get my H2 equipment well into auto pilot before I tackle another vehicle.

[Motohead]

you going off roading or off to war?! http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Mad max ain't got sh*t on you...

[CO Hummer]

Originally posted by Motohead:
you going off roading or off to war?! http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif


No. This stuff keeps the bikers from getting tangled up under the rig.

[KenP]

Originally posted by CO Hummer:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Motohead:
you going off roading or off to war?! http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif


No. This stuff keeps the bikers from getting tangled up under the rig. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>I hate that. The damn handle bars can really scratch the chrome. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

[Redstradic]

Originally posted by H2Oguy:
Yes, but it will be a while. I have to get my H2 equipment well into auto pilot before I tackle another vehicle.

Can you order it already powder coated?

[CO Hummer]

Originally posted by Redstradic:
Can you order it already powder coated?

Neil told me he is going to powder coat them. I got a pre-production model and was too impatient to wait. Plus, I don't really care about the looks of the underbody stuff. I may rattle can the front of the skid to impress Ken though.

[NSANE]

WOW, Very nice stuff!

[MovinH2]

Looks darn good. Never can be too safe.

[ROX]

That looks great! Can't wait to see it in action! http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

[DennisAJC]

SWEEEEET!!!! http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Did you lose any clearance? What was added weight total? How hard is it when trail repair is required? Are the bolts upgraded to prevent weight shearing/stripping? Does the weight have any adverse affects on the air suspension and or other parts? Will this in any way affect warranty? How much?

[DRTYFN]

And when you have to drill and modify the frame have you considered the possibility of creating a point for a stress fracture? Where do the holes need to be drilled?

[CO Hummer]

Originally posted by DennisAJC:
SWEEEEET!!!! http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Did you lose any clearance? What was added weight total? How hard is it when trail repair is required? Are the bolts upgraded to prevent weight shearing/stripping? Does the weight have any adverse affects on the air suspension and or other parts? Will this in any way affect warranty? How much?

Probably lost a 1/2 to 1 inch of clearance in the center section. The weight went from a combined 45 lbs (skid/midrail) to just over 200 lbs. As I think about it, this might actually lower the center of gravity a touch. The midrails bolt on through existing holes in the frame with nuts so stripping is not an issue. I bought bunch of grade 8 bolts as spares, just in case. Tapped out the skid to 12mm bolts (I think). Also have the option to bolt it it thru the frame in a couple of places. Warranty is gone.

[CO Hummer]

Originally posted by DRTYFN:
And when you have to drill and modify the frame have you considered the possibility of creating a point for a stress fracture? Where do the holes need to be drilled?

No drilling on the midrails, use existing holes which are in the frame. I have no idea why the holes are there, but Neil put them to use.

Stress point? Drilling out a 3/8 inch hole to a 12mm - that's nothing.

[PARAGON]

Originally posted by CO Hummer:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by DennisAJC:
SWEEEEET!!!! http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Did you lose any clearance? What was added weight total? How hard is it when trail repair is required? Are the bolts upgraded to prevent weight shearing/stripping? Does the weight have any adverse affects on the air suspension and or other parts? Will this in any way affect warranty? How much?

Probably lost a 1/2 to 1 inch of clearance in the center section. The weight went from a combined 45 lbs (skid/midrail) to just over 200 lbs. As I think about it, this might actually lower the center of gravity a touch. The midrails bolt on through existing holes in the frame with nuts so stripping is not an issue. I bought bunch of grade 8 bolts as spares, just in case. Tapped out the skid to 12mm bolts (I think). Also have the option to bolt it it thru the frame in a couple of places. Warranty is gone. </div></BLOCKQUOTE> Maybe some type of plow bolts would work well also. Since they have a flush or rounded head they would be less likely to drag on a rock and you wouldn't have to worry about them getting beat up and not being able to put a wrench back on them.

http://www.metalgrip.com/images/product_images/BP8.jpg

[PARAGON]

Originally posted by CO Hummer:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by DRTYFN:
And when you have to drill and modify the frame have you considered the possibility of creating a point for a stress fracture? Where do the holes need to be drilled?

No drilling on the midrails, use existing holes which are in the frame. I have no idea why the holes are there, but Neil put them to use.

Stress point? Drilling out a 3/8 inch hole to a 12mm - that's nothing. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>Actually putting a round hole in a frame is fine, you don't develop stress fractures off of round holes.

It's the same theory of taking a large girder and putting holes thoughout, it lessens the overall weight but doesn't lessen the strength.

[CO Hummer]

Originally posted by PARAGON:
Maybe some type of plow bolts would work well also. Since they have a flush or rounded head they would be less likely to drag on a rock and you wouldn't have to worry about them getting beat up and not being able to put a wrench back on them.


Maybe you should come to Moab and be my pit crew chief! http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[H2Oguy]

Alan got most of it all right but just to clarify.

Ground clearance lost is 1/2".

Difference in weight from factory is is about 150 lbs.

I am not sure how you would go about repairing the rocks that will be damaged by the impact from the front skid. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif Seriously the only additional difficulty is dealing with the additional weight. Other than that it is removed and put on very simlilar to the factory.

Yes the bolts will be upgraded and recommmended that small modifications are made to the H2 due to the weak mounting holes.

The additional weight is nothing to the H2. The H2 is equal to a 3/4 ton vehicle so it will not have any problem handling the additional weight of the Underbody Protection.

Warranty is not effected. There have been no mechanical changes made whatsoever. There are not even any additional holes that have to be drilled. The only mod that is suggested is drilling out and upsizing existing factory holes.

Still working on the final details of the pricing.

All the bolts are concealed or protected in some fashion. So damaged to a bolt is low in probability.

No worries about additional stress points, as stated by paragon round holes do not create them, and we are not adding any holes just making existing ones slightly larger.

[CO Hummer]

Originally posted by H2Oguy:
Alan got most of it all right

That's a first. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[PARAGON]

Neil,

I was referring to that Midrail bolts picture. A lot of times you have a tendency to put your tires on a rock and then slide the frame rails and rockers down the rock and it might beat up that bolt head.

Obviously, we all are just going by pictures and whatnot but you wouldn't be taking that part off and on very much anyway, hopefully. Unless you're Ken or Adam. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[CO Hummer]

Originally posted by PARAGON:
Neil,

I was referring to that Midrail bolts picture. A lot of times you have a tendency to put your tires on a rock and then slide the frame rails and rockers down the rock and it might beat up that bolt head.

Obviously, we all are just going by pictures and whatnot but you wouldn't be taking that part off and on very much anyway, hopefully. Unless you're Ken or Adam. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Para,
Are you talking about these front bolts?

[finbox]

Looks great....but it's hard to find any rocks in Florida.

Maybe it could be sprayed with teflon so I can slide though the mud and sand better! http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

All those pics from Moab, Damn I want to go!!

[PARAGON]

Originally posted by CO Hummer:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by PARAGON:
Neil,

I was referring to that Midrail bolts picture. A lot of times you have a tendency to put your tires on a rock and then slide the frame rails and rockers down the rock and it might beat up that bolt head.

Obviously, we all are just going by pictures and whatnot but you wouldn't be taking that part off and on very much anyway, hopefully. Unless you're Ken or Adam. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Para,
Are you talking about these front bolts? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>Nah, those look protected. I was only referring to the REAR ones in this pic

or any other bolt heads that might be exposed
http://elcova.com/groupee/forums/a/ga/ul/5321059561/inlineimg/Y/Bolts_MidRail.JPG

[Fubar]

Nothing stopping you, it's just time and gas. The Elcova Moab group will be pretty easy to find even if you know nothing about Moab. Simply pull into the parking lot of the Gonzo anytime after 6pm on any given evening and try not to hit any of the drunks. ahh-um I mean your fine fellow H2'ershttp://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif
________________________________________________
Originally posted by finbox:
Looks great....but it's hard to find any rocks in Florida.

Maybe it could be sprayed with teflon so I can slide though the mud and sand better! http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

All those pics from Moab, Damn I want to go!!

[Dan]

I'm not sure if I like it. Please post detailed C.A.D. drawings. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[KenP]

Originally posted by Dan:
I'm not sure if I like it. Please post detailed C.A.D. drawings. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif x2 http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[PARAGON]

Originally posted by Alec W:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by PARAGON:
or any other bolt heads that might be exposed

Para, I beta tested this last time in Moab and the bolts are still there. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>I was just offering a little option. If it was you or me, it wouldn't matter anyway because we wouldn't be taking it back off. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Albie]

how do you change your oil??????

[CO Hummer]

Originally posted by Albie:
how do you change your oil??????

That was my main concern. You don't want to be taking off a 90+ lb skid plate all the time, not to mention stripping out bolts, etc. But it's not a problem. There's sufficient access right thru the midrails to get at the filter and drain plug.

[DennisAJC]

Originally posted by CO Hummer:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Albie:
how do you change your oil??????

That was my main concern. You don't want to be taking off a 90+ lb skid plate all the time, not to mention stripping out bolts, etc. But it's not a problem. There's sufficient access right thru the midrails to get at the filter and drain plug. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

So in other words Shaggy is going to be changing your oil? http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[ShaggyX]

Originally posted by DennisAJC:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by CO Hummer:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Albie:
how do you change your oil??????

That was my main concern. You don't want to be taking off a 90+ lb skid plate all the time, not to mention stripping out bolts, etc. But it's not a problem. There's sufficient access right thru the midrails to get at the filter and drain plug. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

So in other words Shaggy is going to be changing your oil? http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif </div></BLOCKQUOTE>Hahaha...very funny. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[DennisAJC]

Originally posted by PARAGON:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by CO Hummer:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by DennisAJC:
SWEEEEET!!!! http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Did you lose any clearance? What was added weight total? How hard is it when trail repair is required? Are the bolts upgraded to prevent weight shearing/stripping? Does the weight have any adverse affects on the air suspension and or other parts? Will this in any way affect warranty? How much?

Probably lost a 1/2 to 1 inch of clearance in the center section. The weight went from a combined 45 lbs (skid/midrail) to just over 200 lbs. As I think about it, this might actually lower the center of gravity a touch. The midrails bolt on through existing holes in the frame with nuts so stripping is not an issue. I bought bunch of grade 8 bolts as spares, just in case. Tapped out the skid to 12mm bolts (I think). Also have the option to bolt it it thru the frame in a couple of places. Warranty is gone. </div></BLOCKQUOTE> Maybe some type of plow bolts would work well also. Since they have a flush or rounded head they would be less likely to drag on a rock and you wouldn't have to worry about them getting beat up and not being able to put a wrench back on them.

http://www.metalgrip.com/images/product_images/BP8.jpg </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Are they called anything else? I asked the Home Depot guys here and they can't figure it out.

[PARAGON]

Originally posted by DennisAJC:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by PARAGON:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by CO Hummer:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by DennisAJC:
SWEEEEET!!!! http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Did you lose any clearance? What was added weight total? How hard is it when trail repair is required? Are the bolts upgraded to prevent weight shearing/stripping? Does the weight have any adverse affects on the air suspension and or other parts? Will this in any way affect warranty? How much?

Probably lost a 1/2 to 1 inch of clearance in the center section. The weight went from a combined 45 lbs (skid/midrail) to just over 200 lbs. As I think about it, this might actually lower the center of gravity a touch. The midrails bolt on through existing holes in the frame with nuts so stripping is not an issue. I bought bunch of grade 8 bolts as spares, just in case. Tapped out the skid to 12mm bolts (I think). Also have the option to bolt it it thru the frame in a couple of places. Warranty is gone. </div></BLOCKQUOTE> Maybe some type of plow bolts would work well also. Since they have a flush or rounded head they would be less likely to drag on a rock and you wouldn't have to worry about them getting beat up and not being able to put a wrench back on them.

http://www.metalgrip.com/images/product_images/BP8.jpg </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Are they called anything else? I asked the Home Depot guys here and they can't figure it out. </div></BLOCKQUOTE> http://www.metalgrip.com/search.html?category_code=PLOW...&item_number=7536BP8 (http://www.metalgrip.com/search.html?category_code=PLOW&sell_code=BP8&item_number=7536BP8)

http://www.nutsandbolts.com/plow-bolts.html

[OldHiker]

What's the status of rock rails? I have the rubber duck, not quite as beefy, but much better then stock.

[CO Hummer]

Originally posted by OldHiker:
What's the status of rock rails? I have the rubber duck, not quite as beefy, but much better then stock.

I think Neil said he'd have them ready for production by the time he's going to Moab. That is next week. Not sure if he's still on schedule. PM him (H2Oguy).

[H2Oguy]

They are still in the works but I have fallen behind schedule severely.
Had to make and emergency trip to SA for family matters.