Skid Plate for RT

I have some good news on getting a skid plate.

First I would like to thank you all for the info like, the engine needing to fall out of the truck. The idea about pvc as great and the key. I am an engineer and figured out a way to fix the problem without changing the trucks design.

We installed a front brush guard. Then we put a steel plate in the front before the engine mount. We then built a PVC Plate with a heat liner (to prevent it from melting) the rest of the way back (to the exhaust).

I will run with this solution for a few weeks to see if it works. If it works I will post pictures and how to get your own.

By the way there is no way that PVC can block a 700 lbs engine from falling. This solution is only designed to stop rocks and debris for cutting into under side. If you hit a big boulder the front guard should let you know fast. If you keep going you are on your own.

I would like to see what you come up with. Years ago we started putting PVC or what we called Hockeyboard as skid plates on out ATV's

I have some good news on getting a skid plate.

We installed a front brush guard. Then we put a steel plate in the front before the engine mount.

The steel plate in conjunction with the front brush guard may (or may not) impede the performance of the front airbags in the event of a collision.

Acting forces on the front bumper may change with your new setup and affect the performance of the front impact sensors.

Just a friendly reminder to tread lightly with such modifications!;) :)

Thanks. We thought of that. The modifications are below the system.

We will also take it into our offical Honda service center to make sure non of the modifiations affect the truck.

I posted the first trial See this link.


http://www.ridgelineownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=14578&page=4&highlight=skid

Half of the job was done. Waiting for the front part just under the brush guard.

A few questions?

1. Does the engine have any special venting requirment. Does air need to come from under the engine? We took your suggestion and used PVC to cover up to the engine (bottom under truck, sides and top are open). We also cut a hole to get to the oil filter. The manual says there are oil drain plugs also. I think we left enough room for it to drian. The PVC will stop most small objects. The bar on the brush guard (the bottom will get caught on any stumps or rocks. I do not drive fast in open fields never do.

We are using a sprayed on substance to prevent the cover from getting hot and melting.

I am still not sure this is a good idea and can remove the shield in less then 5 min.

Any ideas are welcome.

When will you be able to post pictures? It is much easier to understand looking at good pictures.

I posted them to the above URL

The steel plate in conjunction with the front brush guard may (or may not) impede the performance of the front airbags in the event of a collision.

Acting forces on the front bumper may change with your new setup and affect the performance of the front impact sensors.

Just a friendly reminder to tread lightly with such modifications!;) :)

oh that is a great reminder for every one of us guys..


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blanchard grinding (http://www.preciseplate.com)