Kyle,
I would use steel. It is heavier, but quite a bit stronger. It will also
be slipperier than aluminum. In other words, it won't gaul and bind up when
you ride over an obstacle. This could be The steel won't hang up as much.
Rich - Ashburn, VA
-----Original Message-----
From: GrnDak4x4@aol.com [mailto:GrnDak4x4@aol.com]
Sent: Friday, August 13, 1999 9:21 PM
To: dakota-truck@buffnet.net
Subject: DML: Skid Plate material advice......
I looked under my Dak awhile ago and did a prelim. plan on a transfer case
skid palte. Well, I want to make one shortly, due to deer season(which
equals
plenty of trail action) to help to protect my transfer case; something I
would have done along time ago. I noticed that on the frame crossmember
running behind the tcase, there are 2 holes punched into this crossmember.
On
the frame crossmember infront of the tcase, there is also 2 holes in the the
crossmember. These holes line up with each other, denoting to me that there
must have been some type of offroad(factory option?) skid plate available.
Well I want to make my own and cannot decide on what material to use for the
plate itself. I already know I will use Grade 8 hardware(nuts, bolts, etc)
to
mount the plate to each crossmember. I know that 6061-T6 Aluminum is rather
popular to use for custom applications, but I cannot find it anywhere around
here and I think if I was able to buy some, it would be rather pricey. I do
work for a local public works department and have tons of free old street
signs available, but these are only 1/8" thick. Of course, there is always
the choice of the almight steel sheet/plate that I can buy anywhere from
1/4"
thick all the way upto 1" thick. I have access to a powerful drill press, so
drill the 4 holes wouldnt really be a problem; cutting it to size might be.
Any advice on what to use?
Kyle
93 Dakota 4x4 V6
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