What is the function of this cross bar?

[Chops]

Nice looking skid plate!

I noticed the OEM bracket has “front” directional arrow on it. When you removed it - was there a “bottom” marking?

Not sure of its purpose - but the bolt location & size of bracket makes me question any structural support? The engineer in me says leave it on. But I’m not an engineer

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[sprubs]

I was curious why it's so long. It extends way beyond the connection points (just hanging out waiting to be hit).

I am currently in the planning phase. Every 2-3 years I like to take off for at least a month and explore. Last November it was India. Many years ago I did 3 weeks in SD, WY, and MT. This trip will be CO, UT, and AZ.

I make plans for a few places (where reservations are needed) and go with the wind for the rest of the trip. I end up in the coolest places that way!

I'll post info at the time draws nearer.

I can't wait to be on the road again...Let the next adventure begin!

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Hi from India (may last adventure):

We got hit by a Mahindra Scorpio and had to do some roadside repairs while in the mountains.

Traveled for 2.5 hours without seeing another vehicle... then one hit us.

Mahindra's are cool little pickup trucks in India. I would live if they were available here in the US. They looked like a cross between a Maverick and 1940's Jeep)

But good thing we were not one of these vehicles:

Awesome pictures! I went to Moab a couple of years ago and there was a lot to do and see in the area. Hopefully that can be part of your trip.

 

[sprubs]

I found this pic in another thread. What are the parts just above the ends of the bar with the bolt on it? I have to think this thing is sticking out beyond the connection points for a reason because otherwise that's just wasted material and extra weight.

 

[Hot Runr Guy]

My 2 cents is the extra length is to provide coverage for the leading edge of the under-body shields. Otherwise, they'd be exposed on snowy roads and such.

HRG

 

[BOBFRED]

Both. I am planning a month long over landing trip next year and I think it will help deter cat theft.

I have the full undercarriage skid plates on my truck... I wanted to remove the low hanging bar if it's only job was skid protection (I have that covered).

how do you know that the cat in a maverick hybrid is the one they like to steal? only certain ones possess a value worth stealing.

 

[midnight43026]

My 2 cents is the extra length is to provide coverage for the leading edge of the under-body shields. Otherwise, they'd be exposed on snowy roads and such.

HRG

Ahh yes... The old undercarriage ice breaker. I think you are correct!

 

[Tbone289]

My 2 cents is the extra length is to provide coverage for the leading edge of the under-body shields. Otherwise, they'd be exposed on snowy roads and such.

HRG

I believe you may be correct. The parts ordering diagrams online show this as part of the lower deflector. It definitely isn't a structural piece.

 

[HeyBales]

I recall a past thread about this - as to why on some and not others, not even based on trim.

For shipping. Why longer than a normal brace, hiding bolts underneath, I recall someone said not in the service manual for removing anything, as likely not expected to be there after dealer prep.
I think that's how it ended anyway.
Maybe it was found you can buy it as a part, which would seem to indicate not a throwaway.

ETA: Not in the service manual for removing the lower control arm, to get this bracket out of the way to remove the required bolt under it.

 

[Tbone289]

Part #11 in lower splash shields, lower deflector, below. It makes sense that the FX4 doesn't have this; the skid plate replaces the splash shield assembly:

 

[Carlitos_92]

how do you know that the cat in a maverick hybrid is the one they like to steal? only certain ones possess a value worth stealing.

They all "possess a value." Not that people who steal catalytic converters have any sort of brainpower surplus - but in general, catalytic converters on hybrids are more likely to have precious metals remaining in them since the engines don't necessarily have to run when the vehicle is moving.

 

[babytruk]

Hi from India (may last adventure):

I like when I visit places very far away and have to look at the “Made for Americans” signs.

 

[midnight43026]

I know... especially when you see signs that say, "Please do not climb on it."

Those signs are a pretty good indication of the level of common sense some tourists bring with them.

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