It doesn’t. It’s back behind the transfer case skid plate. See picture, upper left area. The Ford transfer case skid plate is also in the same general area but also doesn’t cover it . What ever would have to be added could use the transfer case skid bolts to secure the front of it. And then go back about a foot.
That's sales propaganda to sell more trucks. If it was true the poster wouldn't be having problems. And it's obvious that any significant protection for the bottom is missing when sold. Further, as a different poster noted, the skid plates are so flimsy that they can be bent by hand. I put an OEM skid plate on my ranger and while it is a bit stronger than the aftermarket ones I am confident that if it gets bent I could bend it back by hand. While affording a bit of protection, they won't withstand being bashed against rocks. They are basically steel splash shields.
I have RCI skids on it now but the OEM ones held surprisingly after some robust abuse in rocks. Watch the video from Ford at the bottom of this marketing release.
It that is the case. build a skid plate. bolt it to the frame rail and box the connector in. But follow Grumpaw's advice on the contact cleaner and dielectric grease. I prefer DeoxIT D5 followed by DeoxIT Gold G5 for contact cleaner.
I have a plan and I am going to build a shield. I just started this thread to see if anyone has already tackled it. I’m not touching that connector. I’ve already subjected it to plenty of gunk and it’s been fine. Truck also gets an annual Krown treatment. Just need to shield it from debris.
I have no doubt that you will succeed, and have fun doing it.
Aye, To be frank the plates might not cover it directly but should definitely provide protection save for the off chance a stick or something suddenly learns how to aim.It doesn’t. It’s back behind the transfer case skid plate. See picture, upper left area. The Ford transfer case skid plate is also in the same general area but also doesn’t cover it . What ever would have to be added could use the transfer case skid bolts to secure the front of it. And then go back about a foot.
One of the known failures had the skid plates setup in the picture. And it got nailed by a stick. I’ve got a piece of 4x4 aluminum angle coming and will use the transfer case skid bolts and one of my rock slider mounting bolts to secure it. Should be enough ?
Good stuff.
That or retread shreds
Hah, I've had a few of those wreck my **** back in the day...
