I was wondering if there was a skid plate developed for the center support bearing for us long boys. I've managed to drag it a couple of times now, and the final time seemed to pack the bearing with dirt. Gotta keep it nice and lubed now to keep the squeak away. I'm in the process of looking into a new bearing/complete shaft rebuild.

I know there's a basic carrier/shroud for the bearing on there already, but I was thinking a "full blown" mini skid in that area would be good. Does it exist?

 

I'm sure it does, but that would make repairs(u-joints, etc.) very painful, esp if it is welded on. I doubt there would be any bolts in that kit.

 

considering the drive shaft spins, and moves up and down i dont think it would be a good idea.

 

Consider this, the first half of the shaft does not move at all. Well, the little movement it does have is from the torque of the motor. So You could in theory have something in the front there, and even for the whole front shaft if you wanted.

A unit could be bolted to the center cross member...

I guess there is a reason I haven't seen it yet.

 

Some rally prep'ed trucks are fitted with full bottom skid plates that are sectional and bolted on for easy removal. They would all be custom fabbed though... perhaps wabfab could come up with something for you.

 

Bumping an old thread. I crushed mine on the last my last trail ride. Havent found anything bolt on, so leaning tward making something like this. Just wondering if others have built their own.

 

Have you given any thought to the winter slop freezing the driveshaft solid over night unless your truck lives inside during the winter.

In a heated garage . Maybe not driven at all in the snow?

 

Interesting looking skid plate... I would'nt worry about freezing it up in winter... unless you spend a lot of time driving through snowbanks etc. there won't be much slop up there... and in any case it should break free if it does.

 

Its not more confined than the skid on there now, never had any issues with it freezing up.

Maybe Ill try to just beef up the stock one rather than make a nwhole new one. Well see what kind of shape it is when it comes off. Should have some time towards the end of the month to get to work on it.