Do I really need Bash Plate/Skid Plate??

[lolbroncod]

I recently purchased a 2024 Bronco OuterBanks. The previous owner had the base plastic front bumper on it, but towed it behind an RV. To do this, they changed the bracket with the tow hook that holds the intercooler up with one that is compatible for flat towing.

I purchased a modular bumper with skid plate off FaceBook market place and installed it today. Most people who do this cut off the tow hooks on the factory bracket to install; I didn't need to do this to do this on the flat tow bracket to get the bumper mounted. However, I cannot get the modular bumper metal skid plate to fit, it is hitting the bracket; and the plastic one wont fit without hacking it up a bit.

My question is, do you really need the plastic bash plate/skid plate? I don't do hard core off-roading, more mild things and I can't imagine the plastic one was protecting much of anything. However, is it important to have a guard of some type here for water/snow to protect the under body/intercooler? Or would I be fine with not putting anything on there and leaving as is.

Thanks!

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[Beach_Bum]

Yes. The plastic skid plate is made out of tissue paper. I saw 2 crack on one ride just going through sand. Figure it out, but I wouldn't consider anything plastic for under carriage protection

 

[AZ_Craig]

It's probably more there in stock form for aerodynamics/fuel economy than actually protecting anything.

 

[CalvinT]

I don't do hard core off-roading, more mild things

You probably don't need them. Until I bought my Bronco I never drove a vehicle had one. But I always look for the easiest path, not the mosts challenging. Many of the Broncos at Off-Roadeo don't have them.

 

[Brian_B]

If you aren't running in brush/stumps or rocks, I think you'd be ok.

The intercooler will be fairly exposed along the bottom, that's the most fragile piece I can think of but it's at least kinda tucked up behind the front bumper a little bit - but I can't imagine that not having a skid plate would interfere with air flow or anything through it.

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