Front Skid Plate | 4Runner (96+), GX (03+) & FJ
★★★★★
4.62/5 Stars. (13 Reviews)
- CNC cut and formed from 3/16" steel or 1/4" aluminum (mounting brackets will be steel on aluminum option)
- Frame mounted
- Works with KDSS
- Hardware Included
- Made in the USA
- Free shipping!
The Victory 4x4 Front Skid is designed to protect your truck in serious rock crawling. Removable oil filter panel and oil drain hole make oil changes easier than with the stock skids.
Looking for answers to common questions about us or our products? See our FAQ here.
47 Questions asked on Front Skid Plate | 4Runner (96+), GX (03+) & FJ
•
Ask us anything
Q
Minh Nguyen • 04/12/2020, 0:01:15 AM
Will this skid work if I have a diff drop installed?
A
04/17/2020, 6:07:22 PM
You may need to drop the skid down to provide clearance. We do not offer hardware for this, however.
Q
Henry • 05/16/2020, 9:16:13 PM
For the 4th Gen 4Runner V8, Lexus GX 470 how do you select having an oil filter access hole? One of the pictures does not have the access panel
A
05/19/2020, 2:35:51 PM
Sorry for the confusion, one of those is an old photo. All of the models have access holes now.
Q
mike lee • 05/20/2020, 7:00:14 PM
Is the price, for a 4th gen 4runner, for all 3 pieces shown in the picture? (Not the control arm skids - just the 3 pieces from radiator to the transmission tail.) Thank you.
A
05/27/2020, 3:57:49 PM
That price is just for the engine skid. Each piece is sold separately.
Q
Pono Cavaco • 05/27/2020, 11:35:25 PM
If you just install the front skit plate, do you have to take the bars on both sides off?
A
06/01/2020, 10:08:59 AM
Could you please e-mail us at [email protected] with some more clarification on this question please?
Q
Tony Miles • 06/08/2020, 8:39:19 AM
I have a diff drop kit installed on my 5th Gen 4Runner. Will this affect the installation of your skid plate system?
A
06/10/2020, 4:43:34 PM
Should work fine with most. The skid can be spaced down for clearance if needed.
Q
Brandon • 06/23/2020, 2:19:06 PM
Will this work for my 16 trail with KDSS?
A
06/24/2020, 5:36:22 PM
Yes, this does work with KDSS
Q
Nick • 07/06/2020, 5:16:20 PM
Do you sell the protection piece (pictured) that goes over the lower radiator that is in front of the skid plate?
A
07/07/2020, 2:39:07 PM
That piece is included with our bumpers.
Q
Adam Speigner • 07/20/2020, 9:08:30 AM
will the 5th gen (2010) skid plate system fit on the Trail edition?
A
07/21/2020, 11:32:11 AM
Yes
Q
Kaleb Marske • 07/22/2020, 5:41:54 PM
I have 2007 GX470 (V8) and have 2 questions:
Can I access the Oil Filter through the removable panel (without removing the skid plate) and the drain plug?
Will this front skid work with the factory mid skid plate installed?
A
08/05/2020, 11:01:24 AM
Yes you can access the oil filter through the access panel. You can also drain the oil, but we recommend using a small funnel or Fumoto valve to make the process cleaner. We have not tested it with a factory mid skid sorry.
Q
Jarrod • 08/01/2020, 10:20:25 AM
Do the rock sliders have to be taken off to get these on? In the rock slider install the stock skid plates had to be taken off each side for install.
A
08/05/2020, 11:51:45 AM
No they do not.
Q
Drew • 08/05/2020, 9:45:36 PM
5th Gen 4Runner - so for front skid plate you DO have to remove the two bars??? Like in second video? To get the plate flush with radiator mount. The first video dude doesn’t do that, but the second does. Which way is right?
A
08/11/2020, 5:22:43 PM
We are in the middle of getting new install videos together for the new revision of these skids. Yes you will remove those bars. Sorry for the hassle.
Q
Lee • 08/11/2020, 11:24:27 AM
What is the weight difference between 3/16" steel and 1/4" aluminum for this item?
A
08/11/2020, 5:32:46 PM
Steel is ultimately the strongest and cheaper. Aluminum is lighter and strong enough for most applications, but more costly. For a more detailed recommendation feel free to contact us at [email protected]
Q
Melissa • 10/06/2020, 11:44:19 AM
What is the weight for an aluminum 06 front skid?
A
10/06/2020, 2:30:39 PM
Around 20 lbs.
Q
Melissa • 10/29/2020, 4:20:01 AM
What's the difference in weight between the steel and aluminum?
A
11/03/2020, 4:03:33 PM
The aluminum version is around 25 lbs while the steel is 41 lbs.
Q
BL • 11/08/2020, 3:15:45 PM
Can the plate be installed as bare steel or will it rust if not painted or powdercoated,.
A
11/10/2020, 5:20:32 PM
The steel version needs to be powdercoated.
Q
Andrew • 12/10/2020, 11:03:33 PM
How does it match up with the winch bumper? Do you have pictures?
A
12/15/2020, 1:34:26 PM
On the bumper page there should be some photos of the skid and bumper combo.
Q
Ryan • 12/13/2020, 6:24:16 PM
So installed the other day and def easier with a lift like in the video! What are all the square holes and the removable plate for? I made the mistake of installing the bolts on the outside of the plate, but no biggy cause will switch when I have access to a lift. Also, the machine bolts I got foe the front don’t have much grip. Could use a washer or swap for hex bolts like rear ones. But love the product! And lastly how can I get the fill plate where the plastic was between old skid and bumper?
A
12/15/2020, 1:53:34 PM
Would you mind shooting us an email so we can better answer these questions? [email protected] Thanks!
Q
Jay • 12/21/2020, 5:01:58 AM
Will the aluminum skid plate come with oil filter access cut out?
A
12/23/2020, 5:37:41 PM
Yes
Q
Martin Nussbaum • 01/03/2021, 2:52:46 PM
Can you send a install doc specific for 4th gen v6 engine? Mine seems to look different than what you have here. There are two "front" skid plates, one is more forward with some screen mesh in it, and one right behind it. What do you have that replaces those two originals?
A
01/04/2021, 11:54:16 AM
The look of the engine skid has been updated since the photos. The same skid will be used for the V6 and the V8. The engine skid takes the place of both "front" factory skids. If you have more questions, contact tech, [email protected].
Q
Doug • 03/01/2021, 5:20:38 PM
I recently purchased one of these for my GX470, but am thinking about getting a GX460 now, will it fit a GX460 too?
A
03/05/2021, 9:30:16 AM
It will not, 470 & 460 require a different engine skid. If you have a Mid/transmission skid, or T-case skid, those will work across both models.
Q
Patrick • 07/16/2021, 1:13:28 PM
Will your front plate work with the factory mid skid plate on a 5th gen 4runner, or do i need to remove/replace them all? Thanks
A
07/23/2021, 11:15:25 AM
They work as a complete system. The factory skids won't fit without modification.
Q
Patrick Maslowski • 08/09/2021, 9:16:01 AM
Will the front and mid skid plate cover the catalytic converter? Trying to somewhat deter thieves... Also is there a discount when buying all 3?
A
08/12/2021, 4:22:04 PM
They are not really designed for this kind of coverage.
Q
John Mehaffey • 08/21/2021, 7:57:11 PM
Can the front skid be used to jack up the front of the vehicle? Similar to the stock skid?
A
09/02/2021, 3:39:52 PM
Yes, for best results at the back of the front skid.
Q
Eddie • 10/10/2021, 0:45:15 AM
How does the steel skid plate vs aluminum skid plate compare as far as protection?
A
10/18/2021, 12:47:50 PM
Steel is ultimately the strongest and cheaper. Aluminum is lighter and strong enough for most applications, but more costly. For a more detailed recommendation feel free to contact us at [email protected]
Q
David Hebert • 11/11/2021, 6:01:13 PM
I have a 2019 4runner with KDSS. Will the front skid fit this configuration? I see it does on older models but want to make sure. Thanks,
A
11/15/2021, 10:39:46 AM
Yes, it will work with KDSS on a 2019.
Q
Francisco • 12/27/2021, 3:52:35 AM
Fits for 4runner trd off road 2022?
A
12/27/2021, 8:57:03 AM
Yes.
Q
Kevin Chong • 02/26/2022, 8:53:13 PM
what is included for $455 aluminum
A
02/28/2022, 9:44:35 AM
That will include the engine skid, mounting hardware and powder coated finish.
Q
Neill • 05/12/2022, 9:28:51 AM
I have an '07 4Runner V8, does the oil door work on it? I ask, cause I have been searching for a way to not have to keep taking off the whole skid plate (already had to retap the bolts 2 times!).
A
05/25/2022, 10:04:52 AM
Yes, the current design allows V8's to leave the skid installed for an oil change.
Q
josue • 09/19/2022, 5:23:44 PM
will this work with the arb bumper?
A
09/28/2022, 3:21:28 PM
If you have the ARB skid/stone guard from the bumper to the front cross member you will either need to trim it or our skid for them both to install together. You may also need longer bolts.
Q
Jake Miller • 10/12/2022, 1:53:14 PM
Does it come with mounting hardware specific to vehicle?
A
10/18/2022, 2:54:59 PM
You will reuse your stock front radiator crossmember hardware and it comes with the rest of the hardware that you need.
Q
bryan escalante • 11/22/2022, 7:53:39 AM
any idea if this will this work in conjunction with the cbi covert bumper?
A
12/01/2022, 10:38:33 AM
It probably will not.
Q
Wendt • 12/05/2022, 2:16:07 PM
Is there a reason the nuts for the access panel arent welded to the plate already? Seems like its adding an unnecessary step in having to reach behind to hold the nuts to remove the access panel for maintenance
A
12/07/2022, 11:08:52 AM
We find making the nuts replaceable is beneficial in case of damaged hardware.
Q
Tony • 01/04/2023, 4:01:26 AM
If I purchase the skid plates without being powder coated, bare steel….will they rust? I love the bare steel look but not if they will rust….
A
01/10/2023, 9:27:03 AM
Yes, they will need to be finished.
Q
Nathan Nagel • 01/12/2023, 4:12:14 PM
Is this skid plate system compatible with the Dobinson (or any) swaybar relocation kit commonly needed after a lift on a 5th Gen 4Runner?
A
01/20/2023, 5:00:44 PM
We haven't ran that brand specifically, but it should not be an issue.
Q
josue • 03/22/2023, 10:59:55 AM
will this work well with the arb bumper?
A
03/30/2023, 3:17:51 PM
If you have the ARB skid/stone guard from the bumper to the front cross member you will either need to trim it or our skid for them both to install together. You may also need longer bolts.
Q
Shane • 04/05/2023, 5:21:59 PM
If I buy just the front skid plate, is it compatilbe with the middle skid plate?
A
05/01/2023, 12:21:32 PM
It is not.
Q
Paul • 04/06/2023, 10:04:54 PM
I have the blitz front bumper for the gx470. How well does this pair up with that front bumper ?
A
04/17/2023, 7:24:12 PM
They work great together.
Q
Chris Baires • 04/11/2023, 3:53:48 PM
Will this fit a 2007 Toyota fj cruiser
A
04/17/2023, 7:24:12 PM
Yes, select the drop-down menu option: "5th Gen (10+), GX460 (10+) & FJ"
Q
Mark Hastings • 04/20/2023, 12:15:22 PM
I have a 2013 4Runner Trail w/KDSS. I wheel mostly in the Moab / Canyonlands areas. The stock skids are taking a beating. My ask is how does your front skid's ground clearance compare to the stock front skid? Seems like most after market skids reduce ground clearance.
does your front skid ground clearance compare to the stock front skid.
A
05/01/2023, 12:45:33 PM
Like other skids, there is a slight reduction in ground clearance over the stock skid. It's necessary to allow us to design enough strength in the skid for wheeling.
Q
Justin Pang • 05/29/2023, 9:03:05 PM
Does this cover and protect the catalytic converter as well
A
06/01/2023, 5:39:05 PM
It does not, you would want our mid-skid plate.
https://www.victory4x4.com/product/V4RSD-TRN.html
Q
JD • 06/06/2023, 9:47:14 PM
Hi,
I do not see how to install the front skid plate for 2007 lexus GX470
Does the front part of the skid hook on some where under neat?
I do not see a front holes to secure the skid plate in place😅
A
06/22/2023, 11:27:54 AM
Please reach out to our technical support team.
[email protected]
Q
Will • 06/18/2023, 2:14:01 PM
In the video and instructions a "diff drop bolt kit" is mentioned. But this did not ship with the skid plate and cannot be found on the website. Is this still needed for install on lifted vehicles? if so where is it available on the website?
A
06/22/2023, 10:49:32 AM
If installing with a diff-drop, you would need to space the skid plate down. Here is a link to the one used in the video.
https://www.victory4x4.com/product/VTU23SD-DROP.html
Q
Dexter • 07/27/2023, 12:48:39 PM
Hello! Just confirming this skid plate will work on a KDSS 4Runner.
Also, does the plate cover the gap between the bumper and where the stock skid begins to protect the radiator?
Thank you!
A
12/01/2023, 10:37:24 AM
Our engine skid plate is compatible with KDSS.
It mounts to the bottom of the radiator support, it does not cover the front of the radiator.
Q
Adrian • 10/02/2023, 10:25:04 AM
Does the skid plates for the 3rd Gen 4Runner protect the catalytic converter enough to deter thieves? Thanks.
A
10/13/2023, 11:40:08 AM
It may act as a deterrent, however the catalytic converters are still somewhat accessible on the 3rd gen.
Q
sarah shumaker • 01/21/2024, 10:59:47 PM
I have a 2006 v8 4runner.. so I would buy this engine skid and gx470 transmission skid and they fit together correct?
A
01/23/2024, 2:21:45 PM
yes, that is correct.
Q
Mark N. • 02/17/2024, 2:36:04 PM
I've got a 2011 GX460, does the oil filter access match up? I've seen it asked for the 470 but not the 460. Same question for oil pan drain plug.
A
07/17/2024, 12:03:48 PM
Yes, the filter can be accessed without removing the skid.
Q
Mark N. • 02/17/2024, 2:43:23 PM
I've got a 2011 GX460, does the oil filter access match up? I've seen it asked for the 470 but not the 460. Same question for oil pan drain plug.
A
05/31/2024, 10:48:11 AM
Yes, the access panel will align correctly for the 460.
0
0
2
1
10
chris hatfield (Nevada) | November 17th, 2023
Skids: Front, Mid, Tcase, and Gas Tank
these skids hold up quite well to the absolutely nutty amount of abuse i throw at them by rock crawling on the regular in a 2012 4runner. I have had the engine skid since shortly after i bought the truck ( only gripe with the engine skid is the oil filter access panel doesn't have the nuts welded on the backside so it's kinda a pain. i tried threaded nutserts as a solution and then it got lost on a trail somewhere. they made it easy to order a replacement which was nice.
Just recently added the rest of the skids and can say that they also handle the abuse that i throw at them now that i have long travel and lockers.
They may need to reinforce the mounting brackets for the gas tank skid but i feel like that is a uniquely me issue as i used it as a bash plate on a level 8 trail and bent the front brackets making it scrape my driveshaft. but a little bit of help from a friend with a winch and it pulled right back and we carried on which is nutty to me.
all in all. if i can abuse these steel skids as much as i do then they can handle just about whatever you can throw at them.
Keep up the quality work yall and i will let you know when i can no longer remount this engine skid haha
Note From Victory 4x4: Thanks for the product testing, Chris!
Christo27 (Arizona) | September 5th, 2023
Skids: engine/mid/trans - aluminum powder coat
2000 SR5 4x4 - Overland influenced build
3" lift w/285/70/17
Addco sway bars f/b
diff drop
SPC UCAs
Other quality parts from Sonoran Steel
These skids came packaged well, unpacking I was immediately impressed with the build quality (I have done quite a bit of metal fabricating over the years so appreciate good build quality). The aluminum skids are perfect for what I need and of course much lighter than steel. Aesthetics\quality\function\fit were very important to my decision to choose Victory, and these skids easily checked all the boxes.
The install was very easy (Note: if you're new to these kinds of installs, watch the video a few times and don't drill any holes until you know how it all fits). The result is a high-quality interlocked design that looks like it belongs on the truck and not just tacked on as an afterthought. Even slightly Toyota oem inspired. I'm guessing the Victory steel skids would be of same quality and fit.
I researched just about every skid I could find for a more overland inspired style that would still be tough enough if the truck ended up in a place that required advanced protection. My only regret is that I didn't just get these ordered a long time ago. If you're in the market for a high quality, advanced design skid that fits the way it should and looks like it belongs on the truck, you found it. Thanks Victory – Cheers!
Note From Victory 4x4: Thank you for the review!
Brian (Florida) | July 25th, 2021
Pretty straight forward installation. Worth it for the oil changes alone. Thick steel, nice powdercoat, can access lower arm cam bolts without taking it off. Stainless hardware has held up very well. I would definitely recommend this skid plate.
Darrin Roush (Texas) | May 26th, 2021
I purchased the front skid plate, the mid skid plate and the transfer skid plate because all three of these fit together perfectly. I know how heavy duty these are because I installed them myself in my driveway and got an incredible workout lifting all 120 lb to get these things on (they're roughly 40 lb apiece). Unless you have a lift and a transmission jack at your disposal, I highly recommend getting some help and not installing them alone like I did. They look amazing and they even make my GX bit more aerodynamic as I drive down the road because there's a smooth flat surface underneath.
Brice (Denver) | November 24th, 2020
Good company, great product and I have the roof rack, skids, blitz bumper etc from Victory. Only issue is that it's not truly KDSS compatible. Have had rubbing on my KDSS suspension to the point its rubbed a bit of steel off and is close to the bushings at this point. Might have to replace the KDSS bars or bushing sooner then later due to the wearing that was occurring. Had to take it off and cut the side wings with a plasma cutter to get it to clear appropriately. Was installed to spec by professionals not a botched install. IF you do have KDSS I would cut the wings off the sides so as not to damage the truck as happened to me.
Note From Victory 4x4: Thanks for the review! These skids have been revised slightly for more KDSS clearance.
Matthew Nash (Virginia) | September 24th, 2020
I called a few weeks after I place my order and they stated they lost it but would get it right out to me. I then called two weeks later and spoke to the President who advised they said production had not begun and the production times are listed on the website. By the way they based on the times advertised I should have received my product twice. I called back and canceled my order. I ordered an RCI and received it within 5 days perfect condition. I don’t recommend working with this company. The President never followed up with me as well.
Drew (West Virginia) | August 16th, 2020
Steel powder coated version - great welds, thick and tough. Product looks well made. There are no instructions for installation. Videos on website not helpful since I’m not installing a prototype or full system. Bad experience with install means I’m changing to another company for other products. Victory is cranking out products no doubt, but once it leaves the factory, you’re on your own.
Charles Conarroe (Virginia) | July 9th, 2020
This skid is beautiful! I bought mine in aluminum for some weight saving and when it arrived I was pleasantly surprised by how robust it felt for being so light compared to steel. I have no doubt this thing will take all the abuse I can put it through just fine, save maybe a direct sharp boulder slam. It also installed in 15 minutes!!! I had prepped the vehicle that morning by removing the OEM skids and braces as instructed in the newer install video. Once FEDEX dropped it off, I went into a 15 minute break (working from home) and had it all buttoned up at 15m40s. I used a jack to hold it against the chassis, slid those weird rear crossmember "washers" into place and it was done easily. Thanks for making yet another great product guys!! Mid armor amd rack are next on my list! Take care.
Gabriel (New Mexico) | May 30th, 2020
I got a coated steel front and mid skid for my ‘19 runner.. the build quality is top notch and I’m very satisfied with the whole experience. Total piece of mind with the level of protection they provide. Also access to the oil drain and filter was a piece of cake!
John Pitt (North Carolina) | February 22nd, 2020
Met there guys at Overland Expo East in 2019 and really like what they are building. Needed to replace my son's OEM front skid on 2005 4Runner. Looked at a few and was very pleased with the quality of Victory. The price was fantastic , the craftsmanship is outstanding and the customer service even better. Would highly recommend Victory for all you 4Runner mods! Now it is time to work on my 2014 4Runner Trail Edition with front and rear bumpers form Victory!
Please note: Install videos are meant to be used as a guide, and aren't always the most up to date information on product installation and improvements.
Please be sure to read the PDF installation instructions as well.
Please be sure to read the PDF installation instructions as well.