Diff covers/skid plates

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Ive been doing some research on diff covers/skid plates and there seem to be a few options.. As everyone knows the 4xguard seems to be the most common, has anyone used or suggests a different one?? It looks like Superlift makes one as well, just looking for options... There seem to alot of nice diff covers available to but do these supply any more protection over stock cover? I love the look of the America Rebel Outlaw cover.. jeep4x4center.com has alot of options both covers, skids and guards. Looking to purchase one next mth so just looking at options and opinions.

[hoaxci5]

4xG, superlift, or wait for Steel Armadillo, pretty much the only options available for QD2.

[Core XK]

Any different for QTII? I just ordered the 10 bolt diff. guard, and I plan to get the mopar OEMs for x-mas as well as the 4x belly guard but I am open to different ones as well

[06JeepXKHEMI]

so basically all these that are advertised are for every Commander except the QDII guys?!?! great!! hahaha I knew about superlifts and 4xguard but want something different, oh well..

[hoaxci5]

QT2 (10 bolt cover) I'm pretty sure there are a few options for a solid steel cover, I can't remember who makes them, but I know they are out there. It might also be sold as a 8.25 Corporate axle (I think please verify before purchasing I'm on too crappy of internet to research so going from memory)

QD2 is also a 8.25 axle (or whatever is the correct measurement see above..) but it's 12 bolts instead of 10 to allow for the electronic slip solenoid inside the housing.

For everything else besides the diff covers the skids are the same on all XK's regardless of year or options.

[hoaxci5]

There was a guy on facebook that was planning to make both QT2 and QD2 steel diff covers, I even sent him an outline of the OEM QD2 cover so he's have a template to work off of, but I never heard anything back from him after giving him the drawings.. I didn't really push the issue because I was in the middle of my cross country move.

[Core XK]

Yeah new innovative skids would always be nice but I think the existing ones do the job for not too much of a hurt on the pocket. I think I am looking at 325-350 for the OEM Gas Tank/Transfer Case/Susp. skids

[06JeepXKHEMI]

There is one made by Mopar but its the same exact design as 4xguard so it doesnt make sense to spend the increased charge.. I wish that there were more covers available, a nice looking cover really sets off the rear appearance of our lifted rigs... Oh well, 4xguard it is!!!

[Matt]

Wasn't Jon having some stuff water jetted a week or two ago? Wondering how that went.

Nothing beats having parts designed/manufactured by fellow enthusiasts. .... you know they care just as much as you do!

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Agreed, I just want something different thats all, but I cant wait for something new to come out to buy something, next Rausch creek trip Ill have every skid available minus front 4xguard and sliders..

[Core XK]

Agreed, I just want something different thats all, but I cant wait for something new to come out to buy something, next Rausch creek trip Ill have every skid available minus front 4xguard and sliders..

Im jealous! maybe ill ride along with you! lol

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Ive already got the gas tank and tcase skid in the garage going in Saturday, belly skid and diff guard will be purchased next mth.. You are more than welcome to Adam might be as well depending on what rig he has by then..

[Core XK]

Sounds good! Yeah hopefully he can find a great XK to start his new build....there's still a few gems out there

[Matt]

A lot of XKs are going under the knife this weekend!

[Core XK]

A lot of XKs are going under the knife this weekend!

lol Can't wait

[criket]

I know mine is the 10 bolt (8.25) and I have a SOLID diff cover. It is marketed as an 8.25 cover. Keep checking and calling SOLID and maybe they could start making them. Who knows.

[06JeepXKHEMI]

I know mine is the 10 bolt (8.25) and I have a SOLID diff cover. It is marketed as an 8.25 cover. Keep checking and calling SOLID and maybe they could start making them. Who knows.

Do you have anything besides the cover or is it stout enough to not need anything else?

[07JeepXK]

Do you have anything besides the cover or is it stout enough to not need anything else?

The SOLID diff cover is very thick and replaces the stock diff cover. Nothing else needed besides fluids. But they dont make a 12 bolt cover though, only 10

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Someone needs to come up with one like this..
1521

[07JeepXK]

Someone needs to come up with one like this..
1521

Thats awesome!! Is that an 8.25 diff cover?????? I noticed its a 10 bolt!!!

[06JeepXKHEMI]

No Dana 35 xtreme it says.. Im writing them now to produce something like this for us, at $135 its a buy I would definitely do!!

[Core XK]

Thats awesome!! Is that an 8.25 diff cover?????? I noticed its a 10 bolt!!!

That looks awesome!

[LWM]

There was a company I talked to at SEMA that will make one if I ship them a dif cover. I will look into the cost to buy a 2nd one when I get home or I will have to take the one off mine.

[Sal-XK]

With that armor you making a diff cover might not be needed but with both I think you'll be bullet proof back there.

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Yea look into it if anything let me know I can always buy a cover to send to you they arent much.. As I said before Id rather give SA the business and have a one of or rare piece and will spend alil more to get it, obviously cost does pay a factor but I cant imagine it will be much more than 4xguards..

[stites-xk]

I would much rather give SA the business as well!

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk 2

[06JeepXKHEMI]

So I reached out to the company American Rebel as they are the ones who make the diff cover I posted earlier.. They currently make a cover for the 10 bolt but not the 12. They also said they would make one if they received enough calls for it. Im going to call them back tmrw and see if they will make a one off piece, I love this design way to much!! Heres the pic again if you didnt catch it in the earlier posts..
1524

[Matt]

that is an awesome cover.... i would put that on in lieu of the 4xg anyday

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Exactly!! but they dont make a 12 bolt, if I can get a few people who want one maybe they will make a set for us, they are advertised at $135 so price comparison to 4xguard is right there with much better appearance..

[Matt]

Maybe see how many they would want for an initial order. Might be a good opportunity for Jon to add this product to S.A's affiliate products and offer the exclusive QDII cover

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Ill call them tomorrow and ask I think there is enough guys out there with 12 bolt that would be interested in this since there is nothing else like it in the market.. We will know more tomorrow

[criket]

FWIW, here is mine on the back of my jeep. Remember, mine is a 10 bolt. And the ENTIRE piece is as thick as the ridges you see (~0.25" which is thick for metal)

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/08/100_0947-1.jpg

[Matt]

Just tell them to look at the 4XG guard that everyones buying.... that should be enough for them to realize its a market they should supply for.

[LWM]

I will jump on this when I get back to town.

[06JeepXKHEMI]

John, let me know if youd like the contact info for the lady I spoke to.. I wrote her this am to see if they would do a set for us and then maybe you could get them to mass produce

[Core XK]

This guard is the nicest ive seen....too bad my 4xg is already in matts garage :p

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Ok guys Im updating this thread, Adam is buying the 10 bolt American Rebel diff cover as they do not produce a 12 bolt, Im sending them pics of the 12 bolt along with the 4xguard to show them there is a market. The mold to produce these diff covers they said is 5k so after sending them the pic I will be talking with production manager to see if they will do it. I could use everyone help who is actually interested in getting one of these so we can create interest for them to make it.. Especially if John is willing to offer this in his store I think we can be on to something. If anyone is interested I strongly suggest calling them, 714-533-3286, even if its for the 10 bolt. I will keep everyone updated

[Matt]

I definitely would have bought that instead of the 4xg if it was available at the time

[Sal-XK]

Nice job man but keep in mind when its time to spend people have a habit of disappearing. I've seen lots of group buys crash an burn unfortunately. Our group here is pretty good at following threw though.

[Matt]

I wonder how their sales of the 10-bolt version are... they should be able to base expected profit on those figures (as a percentage of QDII volume compared to the other diffs)

[07JeepXK]

I wonder how their sales of the 10-bolt version are... they should be able to base expected profit on those figures (as a percentage of QDII volume compared to the other diffs)

The 10 bolt is still in production and will be done in 2 weeks. The first one off the line will be sent to me!!!

[Matt]

Ah i didnt realize it wasnt out yet.

In that case.... it might be better to just show them how many people have the 4XG cover and/or want it because there aren't any other options.

[07JeepXK]

Or we get a bunch of QT I and QT II guys to buy the ten bolt and have QD II guys keep calling and asking about the 12 bolt cover and I bet they will make it

[criket]

I wonder how their sales of the 10-bolt version are... they should be able to base expected profit on those figures (as a percentage of QDII volume compared to the other diffs)

I think too Matt that the 10 bolt cover is probably listed as an 8.25. At least mine was on Solid's website. It said it was for an 8.25 and I only paid $84 for it. :)

[06JeepXKHEMI]

So heres the deal, I spoke with the owner last night, he said it costs the company $6500 just to make the mold plus the cost of each mold to produce a 12 bolt. I sent them pics of the 12 bolt diff since they didnt know one even existed, so they can compare to 10 bolt to see if they can creat a 12 bolt with just a modified mold. We talked for about 10 mins and I kept telling him there are alot of enthusiasts of this forum and a few on the other that would probably buy the diff cover within the first month of production and I dont think Im wrong on that. I suppose to call him back this afternoon/evening to see what he thinks, if he says no we may have a get a group together to keep calling on a 12 bolt everyday!!!

[Matt]

Does he have an email address? I'd email him a justification why Id prefer this cover and even send him some pics.... like my leaking diff and now the pics of the damage on the bottom of the diff from scraping on rocks, but no more leaking.

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Here's the email address I have for them, [email protected] .. Shes the sales manager but she will forward to Juan the owner. Make sure to mention this is a topic of discussion on the forum and the interest. Appreciate the help!!

[Matt]

Cool....ill send them something tonight!

They should get us all to out the 12 bolt covers on and beat them up at Rausch in Oct!

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Cool....ill send them something tonight!

They should get us all to out the 12 bolt covers on and beat them up at Rausch in Oct!

hahaha he said process takes about 2 mth, so darn if this does work out looks like we have to go back to Rausch in Nov/Dec

[Core XK]

I am regretting getting the 4xG now lol....

EDIT: although the silver matches the shocks and XK paint ;O

[07JeepXK]

I am regretting getting the 4xG now lol....

EDIT: although the silver matches the shocks and XK paint ;O

Sell it and get this new cover. The 10 bolt will be ready for shipping in two weeks. I'll have mine for RC

[Matt]

hahaha he said process takes about 2 mth, so darn if this does work out looks like we have to go back to Rausch in Nov/Dec

I'm planning on going again in January.... every 2months has been working out nicely.

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Whats it like wheeling there with ice/snow? Ive seen some videos on YouTube that look pretty crazy sliding all over the place

[Matt]

I am regretting getting the 4xG now lol....

EDIT: although the silver matches the shocks and XK paint ;O

My buddy Tim would probably buy it from you....

[Matt]

Its fun! I have some pics and vids.... pretty sure there's a thread here from our trip last year.

[Matt]

Here's the thread from our last winter trip. Was cold as hell!!! I'm bringing a coffee maker this year

http://www.theultimatejeep.com/showthread.php?p=25076

[07JeepXK]

Im so in for some winter wheeling at RC!!

[Core XK]

Yeah winter wheelin' looks pretty fun. I will probably keep the 4xG lol I do like this one though and its a good future option

[Core XK]

Adam/Andrew...you guys should come to jeeps in the vineyard ;p

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Not driving that far for a show and shine, plus have alot of trips planned throughout the next few mths, STEELERS games, off road trips and a possible camping trip, need to chose wisely

[Core XK]

Yeah I hear you....I don't think its too far from me. How far of a drive is it for you Matt?

[07JeepXK]

Where and when?

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Im so in for some winter wheeling at RC!!

Im in as long as it doesnt interfere with football!!! hahaha

[Core XK]

Where and when?

http://www.theultimatejeep.com/showthread.php?1915-Jeeps-in-the-Vineyard-12

[Matt]

Its a little under an hour drive for me.

Its in shamong NJ, 08088 on Nov 10th.

If we have a good group of modified xk's there this year and the GRJC presidents wife places in top 3 again (stock Xk) I'm not going next year! Lol

We should look into one of the "bigger" events like Carlisle PA. Show on Saturday And wheel Rausch Sunday. (Might be an east-coast summit idea)

[LWM]

I will follow up with my contact from Zingology next week when I get back in town. I think I can come up with a better price too.

http://www.zingologymfg.com/diffs.htm

I might make one with the SA logo

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Thanks John, the appeal of the American Rebel, I think, is the stock look with Jeep logo, if this company could make one like that Id be interested in it

[Matt]

Appeal to me is stronger and has a drain plug. I like keeping diff fluid fresh.

[LWM]

Thanks John, the appeal of the American Rebel, I think, is the stock look with Jeep logo, if this company could make one like that Id be interested in it

Not sure if they can use the Jeep logo with out it being a copy write infringement.

[Matt]

I'd rather rock one with a SA logo. ;)

[pjmjr508]

I'd rather rock one with a SA logo. ;)

x2

[06JeepXKHEMI]

I like the look the American Rebel diff, just my opinion, if it didnt have the Jeep logo Id be ok with it but thats what attracted me to it. I also wouldnt want some plain jane diff cover for $200+ as Id rather pay $150 for the 4xguard. The whole appeal, for me, to have a diff cover is to have something good looking with purpose, I think this design does. I would like to see other designs to tho cause this may not happen..

[LWM]

Talked to to guy at Zingology and after my set up costs they still want $500 per unit, no profit in that for me so I will keep working on this.

[07JeepXK]

Ummm $500 per diff cover?!?!? They would never even sell one! I just purchased the most bada$$ 10 bolt diff cover ever produced and it cost me $140 shipped.

[LWM]

Ummm $500 per diff cover?!?!? They would never even sell one! I just purchased the most bada$$ 10 bolt diff cover ever produced and it cost me $140 shipped.

Which one did you settle on?

[Matt]

Yeah... $500 for a diff cover is crazy!

[LWM]

Yeah... $500 for a diff cover is crazy!

I can get Steel Armadillo covers made by American Rebel for a MUCH better price.

[07JeepXK]

Which one did you settle on?

I purchased the American Rebel Outlaw diff cover for Chrysler 8.25 10 bolt with "JEEP" on it. Oh and some other expensive things that go behind the cover.

[Matt]

I can get Steel Armadillo covers made by American Rebel for a MUCH better price.

lol you'll need to define "much better". Cause honestly, $250 is "much better" than $500 but is still steep for a cover considering the alternatives :p

But I would like a diff cover with a drain plug. So when there's a SA one available, sign me up

[LWM]

I purchased the American Rebel Outlaw diff cover for Chrysler 8.25 10 bolt with "JEEP" on it. Oh and some other expensive things that go behind the cover.

THat is the cover then that I am starting with


lol you'll need to define "much better". Cause honestly, $250 is "much better" than $500 but is still steep for a cover considering the alternatives :p

But I would like a diff cover with a drain plug. So when there's a SA one available, sign me up

I can have the 10 bolt right around $150 maybe less depending on how many I order, the 12 bolt will run more as I will have to pay set up costs unless I can get them to work with me on it.

[Matt]

Food for thought.... since they already produce the 10-bolt and therefore would just need to tweak some things to make a SA 10-bolt, then would the opposite hold true? If you pay the setup costs for them to start making a 12-bolt, will the cover be SA only OR will they use the setup to then produce their own 12-bolt cover and therefore compete against you (basically double-dipping)??

[Core XK]

I may sell my 4x and get the American Rebel and paint it red :)

[Matt]

I may sell my 4x and get the American Rebel and paint it red :)

We should have painted your stock cover red.... that would've been an awesome contrast with the machined 4xg cover over it.

[Core XK]

We should have painted your stock cover red.... that would've been an awesome contrast with the machined 4xg cover over it.

It's never too late :)

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Ive talked to them trying to get a 12 bolt made, they said it costs them $6500 for the mold?!?! I have not gotten a response if they are going to do it. Im glad everyone liked my option as I showed Adam the one he bought cause I think that is so sick!! Especially with the Jeep logo I like having everything look Jeep

[LWM]

Ive talked to them trying to get a 12 bolt made, they said it costs them $6500 for the mold?!?! I have not gotten a response if they are going to do it. Im glad everyone liked my option as I showed Adam the one he bought cause I think that is so sick!! Especially with the Jeep logo I like having everything look Jeep

$6,500 is better than the price they just gave me, I think I need to talk to them some more.

[07JeepXK]

I may sell my 4x and get the American Rebel and paint it red :)

I think you should do it!

[LWM]

Food for thought.... since they already produce the 10-bolt and therefore would just need to tweak some things to make a SA 10-bolt, then would the opposite hold true? If you pay the setup costs for them to start making a 12-bolt, will the cover be SA only OR will they use the setup to then produce their own 12-bolt cover and therefore compete against you (basically double-dipping)??

I agree, as long as the 12 bolt is STILL used in current models, that's what we need to find out.

[06JeepXKHEMI]

When I first spoke to the John, I spoke the Anne and Juan I believe and he told it will cost about $6500 just for the milling and create the mold for it, then cost of each diff cover. Seems like quite a bit but I dont know much about it. All I know is I fell in love with that cover when I saw it and would love a 12bolt!!!

[07JeepXK]

Hands down the best diff cover that can be purchased for the 8.25 10 bolt. Inexpensive too!

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/10/diffcover-1.jpg


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/10/diffcover1-1.jpg


...and the goods located behind that sexy cover!!


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/10/locker-1.jpg

[06JeepXKHEMI]

That. Is. Sooooooo. SICK!!!

[07JeepXK]

Yup, its even got the small hole located between the drain and fill plug so you cant over fill/under fill the diff.

[06JeepXKHEMI]

they need to make a 12 bolt!!

[lekmedm]

they need to make a 12 bolt!!

Agreed.

I sent them an email to express interest in a 12-bolt version.

[LWM]

they need to make a 12 bolt!!

I am working with them to make both versions with the Steel Armadillo Logo

[06JeepXKHEMI]

I am working with them to make both versions with the Steel Armadillo Logo

Like this alot!!! Please keep up updated on the progress

[pjmjr508]

^^^^^^x2