Aluminum vs. steel gas tank skid

Shwiftypickle

TJ Enthusiast
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Cold springs, NV
Hey everyone lookin for opinions and first hand accounts, smashed up my oe fuel tank skid on the rubicon trail a month ago, my curiosity has got me wondering which metal you prefer and what holds up. I have seen the warn steel one and a few aluminum ones. Whatcha think?
 
If you can get the aluminum, go for it.

I have a steel skid because the aluminum skid for my 24 gallon tank was out of stock, but I would have bought aluminum if it was available.

I would probably go either Savvy or UCF aluminum gas tank skid with the factory tank.

You might also consider just getting the bigger tank, which comes with a skid pre-installed:
https://genright.com/products/jeep-tj-lj-extended-range-gas-tank-skid-plate-24-5-gal.htmlThere’s also a 30 gallon option for LJs, and also tanks for wheelbase stretching.
 
Steel city, thought about that too and the access door option has always been in the back of my mind, dont have an lj yet..... but when my ol lady gets sick of her bronco 😒....... I will justify an lj. The 24.5 g tank is definitely an option. Thanks for the info!
 
The Warn steel skid plate weighs 75lbs where the Savvy aluminum is only 32lbs. Something to consider if you already have a heavy rear bumper/tire carrier. The weight is the only reason I sold my Warn gts.
 
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Savvy seems to be the top choice, though I'm sure there are other brands. The weight savings alone makes it worth it, and from what I've witnessed, aluminum is just as strong (not to mention it doesn't rust the way steel does).
 
My spare lives in the roof rack but that may change, it's difficult getting a 35 down from up there.... especially when your 5'6". I'm definitely gonna run aluminum. You guys never point me in a bad direction.
 
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Cool thanks for the info, same for diff covers too? I am running stock ones but eventually they are gonna go, aluminum there I'd assume? I didn't want to spend there till I finished the basics with my lift, gearing and lockers.
 
Diff cover material is a toss-up. I've run both Alum. and steel. It's probably gonna come down to what will clear your tie rod in the front (assuming it's still mounted below the knuckle. It's been my experience that steel diff covers typically take up less space...
 
Do you have a link to the Spicer version? If so, post it up.
Ok I was looking at the Spicer modular iron and dv8 modular iron. Have to check clearances.

https://spicerparts.com/parts/axle/...e/spicer-nodular-iron-performance-diff-covers
I have them for my front and rear Dana 44. I had to grind the ribs a bit to clear the Savvy tie rod and Currie trackbar, but if you have a Currie tie rod or smaller, grinding should be minimal. You may need to grind the top ribs a bit for the trackbar still.

I did not need to grind anything on the rear.

The extra fill plug and the drain plug is very handy.
 
Savvy is 4lbs heavier than a stock skid, but it also gives you the option of raising the skid another 1".

As for diff covers--Early 00's ram 1500s used a 44 front end and they have 3/16" diff covers with a slightly higher fill plug. Thats what I am using on the rear of mine. For the front I am using Alloy. Its 5/16" thick

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Cool thanks for the info, same for diff covers too? I am running stock ones but eventually they are gonna go, aluminum there I'd assume? I didn't want to spend there till I finished the basics with my lift, gearing and lockers.
Here you go. I'd also recommend a lube locker gasket instead of RTV. It makes life much nicer when you need to remove the cover.
https://tandjperformance.com/product/part-bp-dt030/https://tandjperformance.com/product/part-bp-dt044/