Cheap fiber skid plate hanging down

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Kahuna

Kahuna

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Thanks for the list “TheDoug” very helpful!

Tunage - I’ll call RCI Monday and check with Tim as well. See if we get the same answers :)
 

5280tunage

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So here's the thing, from what I'm seeing, there are some very subtle variations between the two generations of F150's and the 4th gen Expy. For me, the two things I experienced were the following. Actually, three, but hey. The brackets that mount the front plate to the frame were designed to sit under the Intercooler frame, which meant the intercooler frame was slightly angled (but it sits in rubber feet so it likely wouldn't have mattered) but I didn't like it, so I cut the bracket a little and added another bolt through the expy's frame using a self tapping bolt. The second, was that I was nervous the 2nd plate might come in contact with the crossmember so I added an extra bolt in the center of it. Finally, the tcase plate holes didn't quite line up on the expy frame, so I drilled one hole but used a factory quick nut.

The first kit I bought was the latest gen F150, which apparently was the wrong one based on my call to them after install, I should have called first. Then I re-ordered the second plate from the previous gen F150 and it worked a little better for sure.

I honestly think there are even some slight differences in bolt holes, etc even between years of the 4th gen, which might make it a little hard to make a perfect match. But who knows. Yes, it took a little elbow grease, but it's solid as heck!
 

lbv150

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My 2016 "had"the fiber skid plate cover. Took it off at the first oil change and never put it back on.
 

Expedition Dave

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I believe I read somewhere that it is utilized for cooling the trans due to some aero thing--or to clean up underbody aerodynamics to get .000001 more mpg or some-such.
Can't wait till someone goes in with trans problems and Ford is like well you removed the underbody tissue transmission condom, so we have to void your warranty...
 

lbv150

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I believe I read somewhere that it is utilized for cooling the trans due to some aero thing--or to clean up underbody aerodynamics to get .000001 more mpg or some-such.
Can't wait till someone goes in with trans problems and Ford is like well you removed the underbody tissue transmission condom, so we have to void your warranty...
Transmission temps are actually a tad lower with it off.....
 
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Kahuna

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Point well taken though - a real picky dealer could argue that adding a metal skid plate increases temps. But the FX4 would be my counter argument :) given its plates.
 

Alwaysthinkin

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Just got off the phone with Tim at RCI. Tim was hesitant to say how well the 09-14 skid plates would work on an Expy past the 2017 model. He also indicated he didn't know how those plates would work on a MAX/EL. Very friendly, just had no personal hands-on with the Expy. Talked with him about a group buy and he said the business is very busy right now so he would not commit to fabricating specifically for the Ford Expedition (MAX or regular) at this time.
 

5280tunage

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They are nice guys. I also think like so many they have material shortages right now. I can tell you they worked, and worked quite well outside of a couple variations I made. I'm not sure there is anything out there that will compare quality and durability wise. Its probably easier to go with the one from FX4, but I don't believe that goes past the tranny. So just depends on what you're looking for. Unfortunately, after my exhaust work lately, I've become very adept at removing/reinstalling these, and man they are heavy. Like .5mpg less heavy (maybe).

If you do go with RCI, here's what I found worked best. I actually bought the full plate package for the 15-21' F150, but ended up buying the 2nd engine piece from 09-14' F150 later, as Tim stated it was just a little longer which made it line up easier. All three of the other pieces fit well, and as stated, for the front piece I added one additional bolt in the center using a factory speed nut/hole in the cross member but had to drill two holes in the plates. Not necessary but it ensure it wouldn't rattle on the cross member ever. I also had to drill one hole for the transfer case plate on the frame rail near the step bars. Not super hard but drilling through all that burned through my step bit for sure! happy to take pics again if you want to see some.

I think if you decide to proceed, calling again and asking to build a package that way would be easiest. He might even remember my conversation with him...
 
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Expedition Dave

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1) I'd love to see more pictures
2) I'd love to see a GB on plates that are pure bolt on for the Expys
3) I would like to know the weight of each piece, total compared to the FX4
 

5280tunage

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Here's the original post - Adding skid plates to 2018 Limited with tow package? | Ford Expedition Forum
Page 1 - 10 has good info, pics, and parts lists for the ford factory parts.
Page 11 and 12 have pics and notes from another member and myself about our RCI experiences.

Using the search tool on here, you can search for "RCI" and my username and find more posts.
As for the weight, I believe the entire kit, shipped in two separate boxes totaled around 125lbs.
 
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