- First Name
- Tom
- Joined
- Jul 24, 2022
- Threads
- 14
- Messages
- 92
- Reaction score
- 77
- Location
- Hendersonville NC
- Vehicle(s)
- 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Limited, 2023 Maverick Lariat hybrid, Alto Blue, BAP
- Engine
- 2.5L Hybrid
- Thread starter
- #1
I realize that there have been previous posts recounting experiences with the Rival Part 2333.1891.1.6 Skid Plate. I figure maybe a fresh post might be useful to anyone who is considering installing one of these.
2023 Lariat Hybrid
In garage, on ramps, with rear elevated to same height to gain more clearance.
I applied anti-seize to the 8 access port bolts prior to starting. I installed a Fumoto valve at my last oil change.
The installation manual is just OK, the big complaint for me is that the images regarding the holes to be accessed do not match the rear mounting holes on my truck. I spent too much time getting the nuts into position to receive the bolts. The tabs on the nuts need to be longer for the rear attachments.Thankfully, 4 extra insert nuts are provided. I threaded the rear bolts halfway in, so I could hang the plate while lining up the front. The front nuts positioned more easily.
As a previous post noted, this isn't the greatest way to secure the plate, as the nuts "float" if you don't find a way to keep them in place when you try to thread the bolt while positioning the plate. This applies to the rear mounting nuts also. I believe the same person used zip ties to hold the nut in place temporarily. I used a small magnet near the hole to keep the nut from moving. Not the best solution, but both bolt and nut are steel, so maybe a magnetized bolt would work. Actually, perhaps a threaded expandable nylon insert pushed in from the bottom might be easier, provided you don't cross the nylon threads while positioning the 22# plate. Or maybe a more durable expanding material?
I did this one alone. A partner to help position the plate would make things go smoother. A lift, even better. It took me about 1.5 hours, longer than I expected. Being 74, I might be moving a little slower these days, though. It's a nice piece of kit, and I'm glad I got it. No oil change for awhile, but I don't foresee a spill problem.
Hope this helps.
2023 Lariat Hybrid
In garage, on ramps, with rear elevated to same height to gain more clearance.
I applied anti-seize to the 8 access port bolts prior to starting. I installed a Fumoto valve at my last oil change.
The installation manual is just OK, the big complaint for me is that the images regarding the holes to be accessed do not match the rear mounting holes on my truck. I spent too much time getting the nuts into position to receive the bolts. The tabs on the nuts need to be longer for the rear attachments.Thankfully, 4 extra insert nuts are provided. I threaded the rear bolts halfway in, so I could hang the plate while lining up the front. The front nuts positioned more easily.
As a previous post noted, this isn't the greatest way to secure the plate, as the nuts "float" if you don't find a way to keep them in place when you try to thread the bolt while positioning the plate. This applies to the rear mounting nuts also. I believe the same person used zip ties to hold the nut in place temporarily. I used a small magnet near the hole to keep the nut from moving. Not the best solution, but both bolt and nut are steel, so maybe a magnetized bolt would work. Actually, perhaps a threaded expandable nylon insert pushed in from the bottom might be easier, provided you don't cross the nylon threads while positioning the 22# plate. Or maybe a more durable expanding material?
I did this one alone. A partner to help position the plate would make things go smoother. A lift, even better. It took me about 1.5 hours, longer than I expected. Being 74, I might be moving a little slower these days, though. It's a nice piece of kit, and I'm glad I got it. No oil change for awhile, but I don't foresee a spill problem.
Hope this helps.
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