Transfer case skid plate drop

Brad W

TJ Enthusiast
Original poster
Supporting Member
Joined
Nov 8, 2018
Messages
264
Location
Black Hills
Good afternoon everyone! So I just dropped my skid plate to clean up the transfer case and clean up some rust. Found out real quick that the transfer case is supported by the skid plate. When I put the jeep in the garage it started getting a bad knocking noise. Now I got the jack under the transfer case. I hope all is good once I put it back on.
 
Here are some pictures

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Performing some skid plate R&R as well.
Previous owner apparently stripped a bolt (and/or frame insert?) on one side and broke a bolt on the other! Although I can't seem to make any progress removing by prying/pulling and impacting, it looks like I can cut and push up into the frame as it freely moves up. I believe I could also fish it out with a magnet. Is this a bad idea?

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In addition I posted a picture of one of the bolts. I assume they might be different or longer then stock since it has a skid plate drop. I was considering removing the drop since it now has an SYE and I will soon be adding adjustable control arms. However I'm not that concerned about the ground clearance and it would seem like the drop might make it easier to keep things clean between the frame, plate and such since I live in the rust belt. I plan on inspecting and/or coating things around the bolt inserts as there are signs of flaking paint and rust.

Appreciate suggestions on both the stripped bolt and removal of the broken bolt (its broken flush). Perhaps the broken bolt would pop up inside the frame with a punch? I plan on using a rivetnut or a nutsert for repairs.

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