Barnes Skid Plate Requirements

Don Bulee

TJ Enthusiast
Joined
Apr 13, 2021
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291
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Mex
Hello, I was looking for Barnes skid plates to improve the clearance on my 06 rubicon, and found that there are 3 different set ups, the 0", 2' and the 3". I understand that the 3" would be as stock as possible (maybe 0.75-1.00 of inches clearance) but I was thinking about the flat (0" inches) vs the 2" and what would be the required "needs" for each set up, I have a rubicon so an SYI is not needed and I do have an adams CV driveshaft as well as 1 inch MML and 1.25 BL, with my current set up a flat skid (0 inch drop) from Barnes would be doable or I would need to modify/cut something else?

Ps 1. my current set up is, adjustable rear upper control arms, adams CV driveshaft, 4.5 RE lift (more like 5 tho), rancho rs5000x, locker pumps relocated, 33 inch tires, Moab 16 inch wheels,

Ps 2. I'm thinking in LS swaping my rig maybe next year so, do you know if the flat skid would fit with an LS and GM tranny? or should I stay in the 2 inch drop for future set ups?

Ps 3. at the moment of the picture, the CV was not installed so I already removed the spacers from the skid plate.

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You’re probably going to have to beat the fuck out of your trans tunnel and/or cut it to make the 0” work. You’ll also need a transmission crossmember welded to the frame.
 
You’re probably going to have to beat the fuck out of your trans tunnel and/or cut it to make the 0” work. You’ll also need a transmission crossmember welded to the frame.

Thanks! That sounds like too much effort... I'll rather keep the 2 inch drop...
 
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I just did the UCF Extra (2") on an '06 LJR. Had to slightly massage one spot about 1/4", but I only have a 1" BL.

If you want 'flat', Savvy looks like a better way to go.
You will definitely have to mod some things.
 
Thanks! That sounds like too much effort... I'll rather keep the 2 inch drop...

With Barnes you will still need the crossmember, even with the 2” I’m pretty sure. Savvy uses a cross member style too, those will fit your rubicon. I believe their skid and crossmember are designed to work together. UCF extra(2”) or ultra(1”) is another option. They don’t require a cross member.

Savvy is probably the most complete option for your year build(they only work for 03-06 I believe) but tend to have very long wait times if it’s not in stock, which it usually isn’t. But it’s a well made system.
 
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With Barnes you will still need the crossmember, even with the 2” I’m pretty sure. Savvy uses a cross member style too, those will fit your rubicon. I believe their skid and crossmember are designed to work together. UCF extra(2”) or ultra(1”) is another option. They don’t require a cross member.

Savvy is probably the most complete option for your year build(they only work for 03-06 I believe) but tend to have very long wait times if it’s not in stock, which it usually isn’t. But it’s a well made system.

Either a cross-member, or their trans bracket to weld onto the skid ;)

https://barnes4wd.com/products/tj-transmission-mount
 
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I have the 2" drop and trans bracket welded. Still running stock engine and trans mounts. No issues at all but the exhaust likes to relax and rattle on it, I got use to it. Lol
 
I have the 2" drop and trans bracket welded. Still running stock engine and trans mounts. No issues at all but the exhaust likes to relax and rattle on it, I got use to it. Lol
you welded for fun or because it needs to be welded? isn't just bolted?