Did a search and could not find what I was looking for. I want to put skid plates on my new XLT 4 x 4 SC. Ford probably has them (haven't checked prices yet). Does any one know if the 2005 FX4 plates will bolt on w/o any drilling? Does anybody have a suggestion about aftermarket plates that can be installed w/o drilling?

I ask this as a prior 2002 FX4 owner that paid for the package and ended up replacing the tires, shocks, etc. over time because I did not like the set up. Obviously I did not get rid of the skid plates. This time I figured I would save the bucks and do myself, although I have found the standard shocks that come with XLT to be quite good at the moment. Thanx for any info.

 

I don't see why not. My Lariat has them as an extra option and they are the same things as the FX4s get.

 

The skid plates are an option with all 4x4s. They just come standard with the FX4. If you get the plates off another vehicle, make sure you get the mounting hardware too.

 

As a matter of fact I just added them to my 05 XLT 4x4, i bought mine from Bob Utter Ford in Sherman TX, i have the invoice with all the part numbers of the skidplates and mounting hardware if you have a fax machine and give the # i will be happy to send you a copy.

I got the front skid plate, transfer case and gas tank plates, the hardware must be ordered at the same time. the front plate and transfer case plate are steel the gas tank plate is plastic, i guess it provides more protection but since gas tank is made of plastic already is doesnt provide as much if say the tank was metal. If you decide to order the skid plate for the gas tank, then make sure you either have a mostly empty gas tank or a jack or some help to hold the tank up when you replace the tank straps with the new ones that have studs to hold the new skid plate on. Those 2 straps are the only thing holding that tank up and if its full of gas your looking at alot of weight to try to hold up and replace the straps at the same time.
Everything bolts right up if you have the correct hardware. Let me know if i can help you out

 

Thanx for the info Maxx....I think I will blow off the fuel tank plate. I am more worried about the front and xfer/xmission area. Any issues with install there? How much did that stuff run you from your dealer? I will be talking to Ford and see what's up with the kit.

 

(1) 4L3Z*5D032*AA = Front plate $ 70.71
(4) *W503942*S426 = screws $6.28 ----------Total $94.03
(4) *N801118*S436 = nuts w/clip $17.04

(1) 4L3Z*7E063*AA = Xfer plate $ 32.62
(4) *W505436*S426 = bolts $6.88 ----------Total $56.06
(4) *W520813*S426 = nuts w/clip $16.56

Front plate is awkward to put up, sits a little farther back then you would think or than it did on my 01 screw. The nuts have little spring clips on them to keep in place make sure you put them in correctly or you will have to buy another set b/c they dont come out unless you break them, you will see what i mean when you look at the nut and where it goes on the frame. On the transfer plate it has some stamped writing on one end, the writing says "this end toward fuel tank", make sure you mount it correctly b/c it has a notch that fits around something. You will need a 1/2" socket/ratchet.
I think that about covers it.

 

Go to your local 4x4 shop and have them install some real skid plates...the ones that Ford provides are as thin as tin foil and not worth what they are charging for...