Attaching a skid plate M8, no rivets, ideas !

[Rprecision]

I am looking for ideas on what folks have dont to attach thier skid plates.

Using rivets isnt very servicable.

Is there anything I need to watch out for, sounds like there are some coolant lines that are pretty close ?

 

[SaberKitty]

Belly pan screws.

And on the coolant lines, drop the factory rear bottom plastic guard plate off and get a good visual on where they lines run.

 

[Rprecision]

Belly pan screws.

And on the coolant lines, drop the factory rear bottom plastic guard plate off and get a good visual on where they lines run.

What are "belly pan" screws. do they screw into the pan direct, have a back, use a nut?

 

[blackcloud2k]

Belly pan screws are the same screws that are used all over the front of the sled that have a large head on them but aren't very long. They are what hold the nose and bellypan to the sled.

 

[SaberKitty]

The bellypan screws are the Torx-head ones already on your sled. Items #3 and 4 in the picture...

 

[Rprecision]

Ok.............

And these just screw into the existing plastic ?

 

[blackcloud2k]

yes and into the metal of the bulkhead

 

[Rprecision]

Ok cool that sounds a whole lot better...........thanks

 

[shredjim]

Ok cool that sounds a whole lot better...........thanks

Some of us are in the same boat as far as deciding what to do in regards to a skid plate. Rprecision - when you are finished, will you please post pics of your skid plate installation, showing how the belly pan screws ended up working out?

 

[moderatebill]

I would stay with rivets. Shouldn't have to take the skid plate off that often. If you do just drill them out in a couple minutes.

 

[Nubulin]

I have always used the long pointed belly pan screws (there are 2 sizes). You do have to drill into the bulkhead if you use screws or rivets, so why not be able to take it off.

Replacing a L side a arm is a bear without takign the belly pan off.

 

[Rprecision]

Some of us are in the same boat as far as deciding what to do in regards to a skid plate. Rprecision - when you are finished, will you please post pics of your skid plate installation, showing how the belly pan screws ended up working out?

Ok, I can do that !

 

[sledhead699]

try using the hardwere store self tapping screws thats what i use and they work good!!!

 

[ndmtnsledder]

I don't have any pictures anymore but on my 05 M I drilled out the holes for 1/4 inch rivets like it says to do but then I went and got the automotive nuts that have a clip that fits over metal. Basically they slide over the bulkhead and hold a nut on the inside. They are usually used for door trim and such. Anyway I got them with 1/4 nuts then bought some stainless 1/4 inch bolts and washers. It didn't take long to do and only cost a few bucks. Removing the skid plate only took a few mins and the bolts would take a hit.

 

[Rprecision]

try using the hardwere store self tapping screws thats what i use and they work good!!!

I looked today and didnt find anything I really liked

I don't have any pictures anymore but on my 05 M I drilled out the holes for 1/4 inch rivets like it says to do but then I went and got the automotive nuts that have a clip that fits over metal. Basically they slide over the bulkhead and hold a nut on the inside. They are usually used for door trim and such. Anyway I got them with 1/4 nuts then bought some stainless 1/4 inch bolts and washers. It didn't take long to do and only cost a few bucks. Removing the skid plate only took a few mins and the bolts would take a hit.

I know what your talking about, I actually have a few. I am going to take a look at it when it comes apart.

I ordered 10 each of #3 and #4 listed above. Costed a whole $7 shipped. I am bound to make something fit.

So those who have done them where does the coolant lines get close ?

 

[Vern]

i dont know if its the same on the m8/m1000 but on the m7 there is one on the back on the rightside right in front of where the heat exchanger is. we found this out when we pulled the skid plate and belly pan off my buddies sled(skidplate was installed by previous owner) and that hose had a screw stuck in it and was wrapped in electrical tape. apperantly the previous owner found out the hard way then just rigged up a plug for the hole in the hose.