This discussion could get out of hand really quickly if we start talking about backsides and skid marks. In reality we are here to discuss a skidplate for the rear of a Jeep, specifically the Crawler line of gas tank skidplates from Gen-Right Off Road. Gen-Right is known for its line of aluminum Jeep fuel tanks, perfect for stretched wheelbases or long-range travel. But if your wheelbase is staying the same and you're not looking for extra capacity, then your stock tank is fine, but the skid protecting it could definitely use some added beef.
The Gen-Right skid is thicker and stronger and installs in simple bolt-in steps. In fact you'll spend more time getting your old tank out and cleaning all the dirt and spider webs from the corners of your Jeep chassis than you will installing the new skid. In less than two hours we had our little Jeep ready to bang down the trail.
Not every Jeep is going to...
Not every Jeep is going to be on big tires, but every Jeep can benefit from additional underbelly protection like the Gen-Right skid plates. In fact little Jeeps need even more protection, as they're closer to the rocks and stumps you come across in the wild. Before you get started run the tank empty, as you will need to remove it before you mount the Crawler skid.
The factory skidplate isn't...
The factory skidplate isn't bad, but at less than 1/8 inch thick, it could be far better. The Gen-Right Crawler is much thicker at 3/16 inch, has drainage holes and all the factory mounting points, and comes powdercoated for long-lasting performance.
This little Jeep YJ project...
This little Jeep YJ project has seen better days and will soon see them again as it gets beefed up with both gas tank and rear corner protection from Gen-Right. The installation is easily done with handtools, but you'll want a floor jack and a friend with small hands when reconnecting all the fuel hoses and sending unit wires.