RCI Alu Trans Skid beef up

[wfo9]

I did this a while back and figured someone might want to try something similar.

I have Aluminum RCI skids and the long span on the trans section is a bit weak. I've seen them bend on both aluminum and steel versions. And mine had been tweaked a few times. SO... I added some longitudinal structure/gussets.

I have a different cross over pipe (it runs at an angle), so it gave me more options than a stock cross over. The aftermarket t-case skid cross member in the rear has also been raised up higher for more clearance.

The material I added is 1/4" angle. I also welded an additional 1/4" bar onto the outside of the drivers side lip to give it a bit more rigidity in that area. I had to go on the outside there to maintain clearance for the exhaust.

I have not tested it offroad yet.. But I think it will hold its shape much better. I thought about using mechanical fasteners.. but decided to try welding it and see what happens. Did not really worry about making it look pretty since it can't really be seen.

 

[DesertCanyons]

RCI Transmission plate reinforcement

wfo9,
That's really good welding. Is it all aluminum? My only thought is it would be stronger if the rails ran continuous on the far side in the photo. But it's a big improvement over how the RCI plate is made.

I want to do something similar to my steel RCI plate. I didn't buy the RCI reinforcement angles because they are only 12 Gage and bolt on with 3 bolts. This gives me some good ideas of how to do it.

 

[K9 HAULR]

Well done wfo9!

As an engineer, I really appreciate some of the creative mods people come up with. Also love to see other peoples welds - mine look like wads of bubble gum, like you see under a school desk :shocked:

 

[wfo9]

wfo9,
That's really good welding. Is it all aluminum? My only thought is it would be stronger if the rails ran continuous on the far side in the photo. But it's a big improvement over how the RCI plate is made.

I want to do something similar to my steel RCI plate. I didn't buy the RCI reinforcement angles because they are only 12 Gage and bolt on with 3 bolts. This gives me some good ideas of how to do it.

Ha, I did not even realize they now offer reinforcement angles.. Mine are 5+ years old and that was not an option when I got them.

But yea, all aluminum...The far side can't run continuous because of my cross over pipe (URD)... it's not stock and runs at an angle across the skid.. But it is up higher than stock and is less restrictive and I have no cold start cats....