HD skid plate install questions

[shredjim]

I'm going to install Cat's new HD skid plate on my 09 M8 today. The directions are very brief. I searched and read some good posts with some pics etc. but I still have some questions. 1. Did you guys do the entire install with the sled tipped on its right side like suggested in the directions, or did you go from under it? I read an older post where someone recommended using a jack with a 2x4 under it to make the holes line up easier. 2. Did you leave the existing belly pan on for added protection, or did you take it off to save weight? 3. Did most people have to trim some of the bolts to make them fit? ie to make room for clutch side belt removal, and airbox fit? Any other tips much appreciated. Thanks

 

[M.M. 700]

I trimmed the bolt that goes the nose peice by the air box, and the bolt threw the belly pan on the clutch side. Otherwise it would make changing a belt a *****.

Left the stock belly pan on.

Started the screws in the center, then the rear, then the front of the belly pan. Left them all loose till I had all the screws started, then went back and snugged them up. Then installed the 3 bolts-clutch side/exhaust side/nose.

 

[shredjim]

I trimmed the bolt that goes the nose peice by the air box, and the bolt threw the belly pan on the clutch side. Otherwise it would make changing a belt a *****.

Left the stock belly pan on.

Started the screws in the center, then the rear, then the front of the belly pan. Left them all loose till I had all the screws started, then went back and snugged them up.

Thanks, so did you do the whole job while the sled was tipped on the right side? It sounds like you were able to get all the holes to like up correctly. Did you have to drill any new holes, or make existing ones larger?

 

[KSH]

Thanks, so did you do the whole job while the sled was tipped on the right side? It sounds like you were able to get all the holes to like up correctly. Did you have to drill any new holes, or make existing ones larger?

On mine all the holes lined up.
I did mine with it laying on the clutch side.

You do have to drill some holes for some bolts. I also had to drill a couple because of riped out screws.

 

[M.M. 700]

Thanks, so did you do the whole job while the sled was tipped on the right side? It sounds like you were able to get all the holes to like up correctly. Did you have to drill any new holes, or make existing ones larger?

Had the sled on its sides, and had it on the skis to do the front part.
Didn't have to drill any holes, other than the 3 in the bellypan.
The rest ligned up.

Did have to remove the hood/air box to install the bolt in the nose.