k2idle
Administrator
- Joined
- Apr 29, 2025
- Messages
- 44
- Reaction score
- 27
- Tacoma
- 2025 Tacoma TRD Offroad Long Bed Upgrade Package
Skid Plates for the 4th Gen Tacoma.. Which One is Best?
If you’re planning to take your 4th Gen Tacoma off-road, skid plates should be one of the first upgrades. The stock protection leaves a lot exposed, and one rock can take out your oil pan or transmission. Skids come in steel or aluminum, full coverage or just the basics, and a lot of them integrate with bumpers. Here are 9 solid options.1: Cali Raised LED
Cali Raised offers modular coverage; you can buy engine, transmission, transfer case, fuel tank, or LCA skids individually, or as a full kit. They’re laser-cut, bolt-on, and available in steel or aluminum.
Features
- 3/16" steel or 1/4" 5052 aluminum
- Modular system from engine to fuel tank
- Powder-coated black or bare finish
- Bolt-on install with grade 10.9 hardware
- Service panel for easy oil changes
2: C4 Fabrication
C4’s skids are built from steel with options that cover the engine, transmission, transfer case, and fuel tank. Panels include service access so you don’t have to remove them for oil changes.
Features
- 3/16" CNC-cut steel
- Full system coverage
- Integrated oil filter and drain access
- Around 120 lb for the full kit
3: CBI Offroad
CBI builds skids in steel or aluminum with options for full or partial coverage. They’re designed to work with or without their bumpers and come in multiple finishes.
Features
- Steel or aluminum construction
- Engine, trans, transfer, fuel, and LCA skids available
- Satin black, TRD gray, or bare finish
- Direct bolt-on fitment
4: DV8 Offroad
DV8’s front skid is made from 3.5 mm steel with a textured finish. It bolts to four mounting points and works with the factory or DV8 bumpers.
Features
- 3.5 mm steel
- Black powder coat
- Works with factory or DV8 bumpers
- Bolt-on install
5: NYTOP
NYTOP’s three-piece system is built from aluminum. Panels are modular for easy removal, and they offer a crossmember if your trim doesn’t have one.
Features
- 1/4" 5052 aluminum
- Three-piece modular design
- Service panels for maintenance
- Optional crossmember
6: RCI Off Road
RCI’s skids are available in both steel and aluminum with full coverage options. They include service cutouts and can be paired with an add-on crossmember.
Features
- 3/16" steel or 1/4" aluminum
- Engine, trans, transfer, and fuel skids
- Oil filter and drain access
- Optional crossmember
7: Greenlane Offroad
Greenlane’s full engine skid is aluminum, TIG-welded, and designed to bolt into factory points. It extends farther back than stock and works with aftermarket bumpers.
Features
- 1/4" 5052 aluminum construction
- Recessed grade 8 and stainless hardware
- Retains factory jack point
- Extends past stock coverage
8: Dirt King
Dirt King’s front skid is a lightweight option that keeps a clean, low-profile look. At only a few pounds, it bolts into factory locations with no cutting.
Features
- 1/8" aluminum, about 4 lb total
- Factory bolt-on install
- Protects key front components from debris
- Sleek OEM-style fit
9: Trailhunter / TRD Pro (OEM)
Toyota offers two factory skids. The TRD Pro skid is aluminum and lightweight, while the Trailhunter version is steel and heavier, but both bolt on directly.
Features
- TRD Pro: 1/4" aluminum with TRD logo
- Trailhunter: steel construction
- OEM fit and finish
