Cheap fiber skid plate hanging down
- Thread starter Kahuna
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- skid plate splash guard
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Yup, many F150s driving around you will see the same thing. Ford hasn't issued any sort of recall or anything but all the dealers know it's common.
I had the dealer replace the unit on some of my past trucks. Not sure what aftermarket option there is, sure someone will chime in.
I had the dealer replace the unit on some of my past trucks. Not sure what aftermarket option there is, sure someone will chime in.
TheDoug
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Skid plates are the alternative. There is a thread here that goes into great detail about what fits.
I have the Raptor skid plate that covers tyranny area, and the fx4 expedition plates in the front.
I have the Raptor skid plate that covers tyranny area, and the fx4 expedition plates in the front.
JasonH
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FX4 trim might have a direct replacement. Otherwise, a machine shop could probably fab one if you give them the original.
TheDoug
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Check this thread out
https://www.expeditionforum.com/thr...to-2018-limited-with-tow-package.38146/page-2
https://www.expeditionforum.com/thr...to-2018-limited-with-tow-package.38146/page-2
Thnaks all - I've read through that long thread and still uncertain what's the best replacement for my 2020 (short frame) Expedition. I have tools to do the installation so I'm not too concerned about the install (air tools, etc) but want the best solution. RCI appears to be a difficult fit for my vehicle. I'll call them on Monday and chat them up.
The FX4 parts seem like a like for like fit but not robust. I'll go down to the dealer and interview them. TheDoug - your solution seems the easiest. I assume you have a 2019 Expedition? Do you have the Raptor part number info?
The FX4 parts seem like a like for like fit but not robust. I'll go down to the dealer and interview them. TheDoug - your solution seems the easiest. I assume you have a 2019 Expedition? Do you have the Raptor part number info?
5280tunage
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They aren't direct bolt ons and for me, it required a couple of extra holes be drilled but I absolutely love my RCI skid plates. It was literally one of the first things I did on mine. They are extremely heavy duty, so much so that when I do work under my vehicle I always forget how heavy they are.
I have another post on here with pics of mine. I got the entire kit that covers from the front to the tcase.
I have another post on here with pics of mine. I got the entire kit that covers from the front to the tcase.
TheDoug
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I have a 2018 platinum that I added everything to. Let me see if I can track down part number.
TheDoug
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Here is a list I compiled... not sure if it's 100 percent accurate. I think there are extra screws and fastners listed.
Alwaysthinkin
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@5280tunage, do the RCI skid plates work on the MAX or is there a difference?
I read the other thread in its entirety and I thought it ended with someone saying they had problems with the 09-14' F150 kits on their Expy. Planned on calling RCI next week to speak with Tim but interested in what you have to say.
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!
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!
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...
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.....
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
Full Access Members
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...
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
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
Full Access Members
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.
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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