Stock XJ gas tank skid is thin sheet metal — a rock impact can puncture the tank. HD gas tank skids are an absolute must for off-road use.
The XJ gas tank hangs in the unibody, partially protected by a thin sheet metal skid. The stock skid bends easily and offers limited protection against direct impact. Worse, on lifted XJs, the gas tank is closer to rocks (because the tank stays at body level while wheels drop).
A punctured gas tank is a fire risk, a costly repair (~$300+ for a new tank), and a day-ending failure on trail.
Good gas tank skid options:
Install: drop the gas tank (must be near empty), remove old skid, bolt new skid up to the unibody and tank straps. 2-4 hours including gas tank work.
If you do any rocky trail at all, this is mandatory. The stock skid is essentially decorative.
| Part | Vendor | Est. price |
|---|---|---|
| IRO XJ gas tank skid | Iron Rock Off Road | ~$220 |
| JCR Offroad gas tank skid | JCR Offroad | ~$230 |
| Smittybilt XRC gas tank skid | Smittybilt | ~$180 |
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.