How do you remove the skid plate from a Jeep TJ?

Hi,

I’m new here and not very experienced with fixing my Jeep. I thought this forum would be a great place to get advice.

I’ve noticed some issues with my Jeep TJ 2001: it lacks power, mileage is down, fuel consumption is high, and there’s a smell of rotten eggs. After looking into it, these seem to be signs of a failing catalytic converter. I want to inspect it, so I need to remove the skid plate.

I’ve taken out the four bolts attaching the transmission mount to the skid plate. However, when I try to lower the skid plate, the mount won’t come loose. Before I force it, I want to know if this part can separate from the plate and how to do it safely. Also, when I lower the plate, I see the transfer case and drive train moving. I’m not sure if this is because the mount is stuck.

One more thing, should I support any other components while lowering the skid plate?

hi lee,consider this if you face any challenges during the procedure, refer to a repair manual tailored to your Jeep TJ model year or seek guidance from a reliable mechanic. They can assist in safely and accurately removing and reinstalling the skid plate.,

Removal was easy for me. It was 4 bolts - one of them was a different size, which must be something the previous owner did. The skid plate has hook-like things toward the front of the car so you have to wiggle it a little bit. I definitely saw it sagging as I kept unbolting it one by one.

For me all I had to do was place a jack under the transmission to support it. Then it was a piece of cake: I removed the 6 bolts from the chassis and the 4 nuts that secure the transmission mount to the plate.

hi lee,i also had this issue,about skid plate,but was advised that, this serves as a general guide, and the precise steps may differ based on the specific year and model of your Jeep TJ, as well as the type of skid plate you’ve installed.

You can try and wedge a pry bar or similar between the skid and frame and pull down on it while loosening the bolts. If that does not work you will need to cut them off and install new nutserts into frame.