Skid Plate for Gas Tank
OEM gas tank skid is light gauge and bends easily. Aftermarket skids (Rocky Road, Skid Row) are 3/16" or 1/4" steel and worth every penny on rocks.
The OEM gas tank skid is 14-gauge steel that protects against branches and curbs but folds on a real rock. A holed gas tank on the trail is a bad day — the XJ tank sits low and exposed.
Aftermarket replacements:
- Rocky Road Outfitters: 3/16" plate, bolts to factory mounts, $200-280, the long-standing standard
- Skid Row Offroad: 1/4" plate, slightly heavier and more expensive
- JcrOffroad: 3/16", clean welds, $260
- Iron Rock Off Road: includes muffler skid integration
Install is straightforward — drop the OEM skid (six bolts), bolt the new one up. The aftermarket plates typically reuse the factory mount holes plus add a couple of body mount captured nuts for extra rigidity.
While you're under there: inspect the tank straps (rust through), filler neck hose (gets crispy), and rollover valve at top of tank. Replace the straps if rusty — they're cheap ($30) and a broken strap means a fallen tank on the trail.
Cross-reference: see armor section for full underbody skid kits that include this plus oil pan, t-case, and rocker protection.
Why it works
- essential for rock work
- tank is exposed
- cheap insurance
Trade-offs
- weight
- trans cooler space
Tools required
- socket set
- floor jack
- wire wheel
Parts
| Part | Vendor | Est. price |
|---|---|---|
| Rocky Road Outfitters gas tank skid | Rocky Road Outfitters | ~$250 |
| JcrOffroad gas tank skid | JcrOffroad | ~$260 |
| OEM tank strap replacement | Mopar | ~$35 |
Sources
Related
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. How we source guides. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.