Baystate Jeepers

So I just got back from a great trip at Rausch. Thanks Kurt, Tony and Kathe for a great trip. I mangled a few things and was inspecting my Jeep and noticed that I really smashed my oil pan. I guess I had too much fun. I need to replace it so I ordered a new one. Obviously, I don't want to smash the new one so I am looking for ideas on an oil pan skid plate for 97 Wrangler with 4.0. I do have a Banks exhaust and header so I think the skid row plate is out. Any ideas?

Under cover fab. Don't get aluminum!

Don't get aluminum? As someone that just ordered a bunch of aluminum... Why?

Aluminum doesn't have the elasticity of steel. Al will stretch, puncture and tear while steel will bend but remain intact. It will take more force to bend the same thickness as well. Aluminum's advantage is weight and appearance, but if you're looking for utility, steel is a better choice.

Yeah that!

I've got an Undercover Fab skid. It works with lots of different transmission skids so it should work for you. While you are at it, get a Fumoto valve for the oil drain plug. It'll aid in oil changes without removing the skid.

It looks like undercover it is.

Just to offer a different opinion, I've been bashing my aluminum under cover fab engine skid for years and years. More expensive but much lighter. And, I agree that the Fumoto valve is a worthwhile mod. Worry free and makes oil changes with a skid easy.

Also, you did all that stuff without an engine skid!!! Hats off to you!

I am amazed that the oil pan can get hit at all ! At least without killing the driveshaft or control arms in your case. But , again it has happened. I have a skid called "Slam Guard" on my oilpan. I have a CJ . It is just a .25" plate bent to fit the shape of the pan and is held on with a FAT coat of silicone ! Yes , Just silicone . It been on there about 12 years and I do see scratched paint , but never have I seen any damage . You might be able to see it in my avatar FjR68

Many years ago I managed to damage an oil pan even though I had an engine skidplate. It turned out I ran over the end of an about 4" diameter log and it popped up under the Jeep. It wedged itself between the edge of the plate and the engine block and pivoted into the side of the pan and then rolled out. The oilpan self clearanced itself as the crankshaft turned. I think I sold that one to Lori Holms when I upgraded to the Rokmen TT and engine skid. LOL

The steel slides better on rocks. Aluminum tends to stick more.

Ordered a steel UCF plate and a new oil pan. Hopefully, I can get that done along with a cracked frame welded before GG on the 17th.

Jeepster2586 wrote:Ordered a steel under cover for plate and new oil pan. Hopefully I can get that done along with a cracked frame weldef before GG on the 17th

How is your rear main seal? You'll have to pull the cats, and the oil pan, and the seal is right there. If yours is seeping/leaking, now would be the best time to get that done as well. I had the chance, skipped it, and kinda regret it. The seal is only a few bucks.

And if your in there and have some miles on the motor new oil pump doesn't hurt. If not replacing pickup tube atleast clean screen and make sure tube is clear.