RCI Skid Fitment

[svana]

I've got an 03 Limited and just picked up an older model of steel RCI Transfer case and transmission skids from a friend. Upon trying to install them, the diagonal tube brackets were in the way of the install. If I left them sandwiched between the frame and the skids, the lip on the edges of the transmission skid would make contact with the brackets and prevent it from sitting flush with the mounting holes.

If I sandwiched the skid between the bracket and frame, the bracket doesn't reach the frame that runs the length of the vehicle - theres approximately a 1" gap between the tube and frame.

Does anybody have an older full set of RCI skids installed? If so, how did you guys install them? Did you leave the diagonal tubes off?

On an unrelated note, the transfer case (older 1 piece model) skid comes with a bulge on the underside which loses a few inches of clearance right under the actuator, but I can't see what it's there to protect. Some things I read mentioned its to clear the exhaust but it's definitely not in that area. I haven't taken any pictures since it's too damn cold (FL guy living in VA), but I can crawl under there if need be.

I appreciate any insight!

 

[Inv4drZm]

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/133673-*-new-heavy-duty-skid-plates-*-6.html

These look like pics of the old RCI skids.

Sounds like you might be trying to install the transfer case skid backwards? The exhaust cuttout lines up with the low hanging exhaust section right behind the crossmember.

Those stock tube brackets protect the catalytic converters. Your new skid plates should do an alright job of this so you don't technically need them if they are tricky to mount.

 

[svana]

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/133673-*-new-heavy-duty-skid-plates-*-6.html

These look like pics of the old RCI skids.

Sounds like you might be trying to install the transfer case skid backwards? The exhaust cuttout lines up with the low hanging exhaust section right behind the crossmember.

Those stock tube brackets protect the catalytic converters. Your new skid plates should do an alright job of this so you don't technically need them if they are tricky to mount.

Thanks, I haven't seen that thread yet. That's still a newer version of the plate I have, as the TCase is all one piece on mine. At least it's showing that the skids go in between, so I'll at least have an idea of which way to orient it.I'll take a look at the exhaust later.

 

[Inv4drZm]

Thanks, I haven't seen that thread yet. That's still a newer version of the plate I have, as the TCase is all one piece on mine. At least it's showing that the skids go in between, so I'll at least have an idea of which way to orient it.I'll take a look at the exhaust later.

I did some more looking and it seem the exhaust bulge issue is because Josh made 2 seperate transfer case skid designs originally. One for the V6 and one for the V8.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/133673-*-new-heavy-duty-skid-plates-*-2.html

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5035/8411234475_86f40dc8ab_c.jpg

 

[svana]

I did some more looking and it seem the exhaust bulge issue is because Josh made 2 seperate transfer case skid designs originally. One for the V6 and one for the V8.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/133673-*-new-heavy-duty-skid-plates-*-2.html

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5035/8411234475_86f40dc8ab_c.jpg

And there's the answer! Thanks for the help. I'll lose a few inches of clearance in that one spot I guess, but no harm no foul. Hell, if it makes contact there won't be anything behind it that can get damaged anyways lol.