Are skid pans really needed?

[fwoz]

I have a 2003 4Runner and only drive on paved roads. My skid plates are rusting out and the front may need replacement at $300 plus about $100 for installation.
Do I really need these skid plates? Any advice appreciated.
Thanks

 

[Nuke]

Unless you run over old tires, lawn mowers or other objects on those paved roads, no, you do not NEED skid plates. But I think the T4R looks kinda... ugly... w/o them. You should be able to pick one up on ebay or some T4R take-off site.

 

[CJ3Flyr]

Unless you run over old tires, lawn mowers or other objects on those paved roads, no, you do not NEED skid plates. But I think the T4R looks kinda... ugly... w/o them. You should be able to pick one up on ebay or some T4R take-off site.

I agree... Place an WTB ad in the classifieds here and at T120. There's too much crap on the road to go without IMHO.
:cheers:

 

[Nuke]

Another thought: How badly are yours rusted? How about removing them, hitting them with a good rust-proven primer and then flat black? It's not as if they're up top where anyone will give a rats azz that they're not perfect. I used to remove the skid plates on my 2nd and 3rd gen at each oil change.

 

[S p a r k y]

I have a 2003 4Runner and only drive on paved roads. My skid plates are rusting out and the front may need replacement at $300 plus about $100 for installation.
Do I really need these skid plates? Any advice appreciated.
Thanks

Agree with some others, post to a WTB, want to buy thread and get some used for $50 or more. also go to car-part.com and get some. The dealer wants $300 and $100. If your doing full plates, its only 8-12 bolts, not even close to worth $100 for install. will take 10 mins easily.