When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I wonder does the aftermarket mount to the same spots as the OEM bash plate.
Nope. The OEM plate comes with a reinforced set of tubing that provide mounts for the plate (stronger internal frame). The aftermarket version provides a few extra brackets for mounting, but uses the existing frame. I suspect if you have the OEM under shield you will not be able to go backwards to the aftermarket plate, because the inside frame will now be different.
Nope. The OEM plate comes with a reinforced set of tubing that provide mounts for the plate (stronger internal frame). The aftermarket version provides a few extra brackets for mounting, but uses the existing frame. I suspect if you have the OEM under shield you will not be able to go backwards to the aftermarket plate, because the inside frame will now be different.
I was working on the thinking that the extra brackets are used to mimic the 2 front anchor points on the OEM reinforced bracket allowing the shield to bolt in without the stronger cross member in the OEM version. The 4 other anchor points (2 on either side of the hook area and 2 immediately in front) appear to be the same either way.
Time I got out the hammer and try beating it back into position I guess. This after market option as a backstop if I bork it up was what I was thinking. Maybe not.
I picked up a used OEM bash plate for $245 shipped. Just the plate, no cross member etc. Hopefully all goes smoothly. I'll have some fun trying out my panel beating skills or lack thereof on the current one.
What paint did folks use for the recovery loop. Looks really good and mine has taken a few dings too.
Some detailed pictures to show the gap above and protection for debris/mud there with the genuine undershield.
This can be fairly easily achieved with a plate on the original crossmember /brace there.
Problem solved! For my aftermarket under shield I made a simple 1/4" aluminum plate and it bolts on perfect to the two existing holes in the frame above the hook. For future travelers considering the aftermarket shield, this is a simple 10.5" x 4.25" plate cut from 1/4" 6061 aluminum (1/8" would be fine). You can get this kind of plate from Amazon for $15-30. I cut the plate, trimmed the top corners, and then sized it above the hook. I notched out the bottom corners a 1/8" to create a tight seal against the bottom and marked the holes for drilling once it was in place. I used two 3/8" x 3/4" stainless steel bolts. I chose to mount the plate above the frame to give me more room for a bigger shackle. I also painted it black. It seals the space perfectly. I am very happy with it.
