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I caved in a stock bash plate on an inland track on Moreton Island in a Triton. Lucky no damage was done but had to get out and do some bush repairs to stop some rubbing and squeaking. When I got my Prado, a decent bash plate was a high priority.
I got a good deal on a Minecorp bash plate which is pretty good. I've put plenty of scraps and dents in it. I've bent it a bit towards the rear where they have put too many drainage holes. I also think it hangs a bit low in a few areas and extra clearance can be gained with a few changes.
I've designed my own bash plate based on a few areas I wanted to improve on.
- Light weight. I've chosen 3mm with edge flanges and folds to increase stiffness
- Larger side protection wings
- Drain holes to make it easier to hose clean
- All bolts recessed and protected to keep bottom smooth
- Design for maximum ground clearance. Gained about 30mm over the mine corp one.
- A couple of drain holes to match up with holes in cross member behind sump. Mine were full of sand cause they were blocked.
I'm getting one made for a test fitment. Should have it in a week or two.
As for material and finish, the first one will be steel to keep costs down if it doesn't fit properly. I am considering Stainless Steel, Powder coated zinc primer and Satin black top coat or Zinc plating.
I got a good deal on a Minecorp bash plate which is pretty good. I've put plenty of scraps and dents in it. I've bent it a bit towards the rear where they have put too many drainage holes. I also think it hangs a bit low in a few areas and extra clearance can be gained with a few changes.
I've designed my own bash plate based on a few areas I wanted to improve on.
- Light weight. I've chosen 3mm with edge flanges and folds to increase stiffness
- Larger side protection wings
- Drain holes to make it easier to hose clean
- All bolts recessed and protected to keep bottom smooth
- Design for maximum ground clearance. Gained about 30mm over the mine corp one.
- A couple of drain holes to match up with holes in cross member behind sump. Mine were full of sand cause they were blocked.
I'm getting one made for a test fitment. Should have it in a week or two.
As for material and finish, the first one will be steel to keep costs down if it doesn't fit properly. I am considering Stainless Steel, Powder coated zinc primer and Satin black top coat or Zinc plating.
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