Savvy Engine Skid Install and Alignment

[dieselvrr]

Trying to install my Savvy Engine Skid plate on my TJ. I am having issues centering and aligning the Engine skid to properly mount to my stock transfer case skid. I've installed the motor mounts and loosely mounted the struts and skid. I cant seem to get the skid plate centered and aligned correctly. A lot of it seems driven from the drivers side mounting bolts interfering with the strut to get the full range of motion for alignment. I read a post from another install that had to grind some of the drivers side strut and exhaust cut out to clear. I dont mind doing that, but wanted to get some confirmation from other members if they've had similar issues. I've tried different combinations of the strut in front and behind of the motor mount tabs but still cant get it centered and aligned correctly for me to drill holes in the stock transfer case skid for mounting. Any tips appreciated.

 

[MountaineerTom]

That may have been my write up about grinding the edge down a little to get it to fit.

I can’t remember if I tried swapping ends on the drivers side strut or not. So that the angled piece is on the upper side of the motor mount bracket. It seems like I did and then there were still fitment/alignment issues.

Ultimately, I just ground a little off for clearance.

 

[Camdenst]

Here’s a video on the UCF skid install. From your pictures it looks like a very similar in design.

 

[dieselvrr]

Here’s a video on the UCF skid install. From your pictures it looks like a very similar in design.

Yup, followed it to a T, still not working out.

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[jazngab]

My UCF skid was a little tough lining up as well. And even putting it back on after I dropped it to take off the transfer skid was a pain. Just loosely put on all the bolts and pull on it hard towards the skid for it to reach. Make sure it doesn’t touch or rub against anything. Just have to play with it.

 

[Camdenst]

Hmmmm.... @MountaineerTom may be on to something by grinding it down.

 

[dieselvrr]

Hmmmm.... @MountaineerTom may be on to something by grinding it down.

Yeah, I can see how it helps. Gives the clearance too make adjustments. Guess I'm surprised you would have to do that.

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[MountaineerTom]

I just took a little bit off. Just enough to keep in from hitting.

 

[dieselvrr]

I just took a little bit off. Just enough to keep in from hitting.

View attachment 75689

@MountaineerTom, you had to grind some of the exhaust cutout to clear the exhaust as well correct? If you see in my picture, the skid plate is right up against the exhaust.

 

[dbbd1]

On my UCF skid, I should have been able to use the holes that raised the skid highest but I couldn't, it was really close (but not touching) my exhaust. I have a BL and MML. I chose to use the other set of holes, I could have ground the skid a bit but, thought that I would leave it intact for more strength in that area.

 

[MountaineerTom]

@MountaineerTom, you had to grind some of the exhaust cutout to clear the exhaust as well correct? If you see in my picture, the skid plate is right up against the exhaust.

Yes, I did. Just a little bit.

 

[Neal]

I had to trim my skid to clear the exhaust as well. I'm still getting just a bit of contact when I bounce off the rocks a little too enthusiastically, but it is only enough to knock off some of the baked-on mud. Trying to decide whether I should grind a little more off or just wait until I get the tummy tuck which will include both body and motor mount lifts. Note: what you see in the photo is not rub marks, it's just black marker where I drew the cut line. I suppose I should clean that up, but as I have mentioned in other threads, I'm lazy...