Description
(2010-2020) 5th Gen 4Runner Skid Plates
Includes: Front, Mid, Transmission, Crossmember and Fuel Tank
Stage 2 (Overland Protection) is designed for the adventurer who forges their own trail. The explorer who knows that they will keep going, even when the trail does not. We know you need proper equipment with you, because where you are going, a tow truck is not an option. Recovery gear, tools, spare parts, food, water, additional fuel, communications equipment, and medical supplies, are all important, but are for nothing if your drivetrain is damaged. From the vulnerable engine oil pan to the resin fuel tank, the 4Runner is your lifeline; do not forget to protect it where it needs it most.
Standing as the only line of defense from the forward most crossmember, to behind the fuel tank by use of an included, purpose built reinforced steel crossmember. Stage 2 integrates fuel tank protection from rock and stump punctures. Constructed from pure American LASER cut and CNC press brake formed 1/8″ (3.175mm) thick steel or 1/4″ (6.35mm) thick 5052 aluminum alloy. We utilize a cleaner, more precise Laser cutting method instead of industry standard plasma cutting. Plasma is limited to only cutting; our laser can cut, drill, engrave, and weld, giving us a distinct advantage over the industry standard. Our protection systems are more precisely fitted to the frame, with tighter tolerances, stronger edges, cleaner cuts, and OEM level of product refinement.
BudBuilt utilizes every possible attachment point, as well as additional load distributing supports, and overlapping plate designs to eliminate frame crossmembers from crushing inward during hard impacts, Unlike the OEM design, our system completely isolates the transfer case from all potential impacts. Safeguarding your transfer case and transmission from expansive damage and breakdowns.
We at BudBuilt, do not want to sell you the same product twice, we take pride in knowing that our products will stand the test of time under regular abuse. Anyone can go exploring, but BudBuilt can bring you back.
- 100% bolt on, no welding, no fabricating
- Edges are formed for strength and rigidity with area to allow for cleaning and mud removal
- Protects radiator, front alignment cams, engine, transmission, exhaust mid-pipe, front differential, transfer case, and fuel tank
- Recessed fasteners provide a smooth surface, leaving nothing to hang up on
- Includes engine oil drain plug and filter access, never requiring armor to be removed for routine maintenance
- BudBuilt will never cut our logo into a skid plate, weakening the armor, in an effort to advertise
- 100% North American steel and aluminum, handcrafted in North Carolina to last
1/8″ (3.175mm) Lite Steel – 153 pounds (70kg)
A great, cost effective alternative to aluminum, 1/8″ lite steel will protect your drivetrain from damage. We recommend 1/8″ lite steel where the application sees regular off-roading, yet very limited potential for regular sharp rock impacts. 1/8″ lite steel is more susceptible to denting than 3/16″ steel, yet this issue only presents itself during heavy single point impacts, like that of a large sharp rock. 1/8″ lite steel requires powder coating or user-applied paint to prevent rust.
1/4″ (6.35mm) Aluminum Alloy – 125 pounds (57kg)
Strength without the weight. Our 5052 laser cut aluminum alloy has the same strength levels as our 3/16″ steel, but at a faction of the weight. We recommend aluminum where the application sees regular off-roading, yet limited potential for dragging on hard surfaces like rocks. While 1/4″ aluminum has the strength to handle heavy rock impacts, it is much more susceptible to galling than steel, when dragged over rocks.
Galling results in what looks like fine aluminum shavings by the rock that was dragged down the plate. Another way of thinking about this is by first stating that aluminum has no problem at impacting an obstacle, it’s what happens after impact that matters. After impact, if your driving style is to reassess the trail and choose a better line, aluminum is the right choice. If your driving style is to continue on the same line, as in rock crawling applications, we would recommend our 3/16″ steel (Rock Armor) systems. Aluminum does not require prepping and repainting impact areas to prevent rust.
Custom Work
BudBuilt, being one of the few industry manufactures to not just design, but build in house, can easily customize any product for you. If you have an idea, call us, our passion is to help you bring your dream into reality. We will always ensure that any item that leaves our shop is fit for the BudBuilt name. A well engineered, well designed, overly strong and lasting product.
Powder Coating
We utilize a higher quality industrial powder coating process thru Powder River Technologies. The process is second to none, from the white metal blasting and iron phosphate wash, to the zinc primer and Cardinal top coating, your product will be professionally finished. We can do almost any color and texture. Visit
Cardinal Paint, our powder supplier, for color charts and texture options. Please allow an additional week for powder coated items to ship, due to the attention to detail of the coating process and the transportation time between shops.
Bare Metal
All BudBuilt products are sanded and prepped prior to shipment, ready for you to paint the color of your choice. All items will usually just need a final wipe down with solvent before applying paint. Bare metal helps to keep the cost of the parts down and allows you to fully customize your rig.
