I'm in the home stretch of my initial build on my jku, getting ready to order last batch of parts. Looking at skid plates, and wanted to know what everyone prefers? Also, what all pieces are necessary, I don't want to end up with a bunch of unneeded protection, and weight. I like the looks of the Evo package deal from northridge, but wanted to hear some opinions first.

side note: will the riddler or PS diff covers work with factory track bars that are running relocation brackets on the axles?

 

I would say the "best" IMO is the Artec full belly pan set up, but are super pricey. The rockhard set-ups are quite popular and probably the best bang for the buck. With that being said, I know a lot of hardcore wheelers that don't have anything more then the factory skids and have never had a problem.
The newer designed PS covers will work with your stock track bars.

 

I run the Rock Hard kit and have been very pleased with their product.

 

There is no reason to get aftermarket full body skid plates. The only thing you need to buy are evap skid/relocation and a skid for your oil pan.

 

Good point. I actually run the Rock Hard skid that covers the oil pan and trans pan. I relocated the evap by myself (no kit, like $15 in parts). If you're running a 12+ then your evap already has a skid. Your fuel tank skid will be fine.

 

Grind down fins on factory transfer skid. Oil pan and evap skid like mentioned. Then once you've beat the hell out of the gas tank skid like I have get one. Don't have a scratch on my evap skid.

 

The EVO Protek skid system is tough to beat for the money, providing protection to the oil pan, trans pan and cooler line, crossover pipe, and adding some beef to the crossbeam.

 

Evo Protek is a great value, we've had great luck with them.

The rockhard skid system offers full coverage, very well built.

The Artec setup is a killer setup as well, nice flat smooth belly, and light weight.

 

one that actually replaced the stock one rather than cover the stock one.
the stock one on mine is rusty and im not going to cover the stock one and have it continue to rust under the new one ! and im not going to remove sand it and all the work it would take to re paint it just to cover it up again

 

I'm with you. My OEM skid isn't too bad, so I'm planning to *carefully* grind away the few rust spots I have, then repaint them. But, why just add weight on top of weight? I'd prefer to remove the factory junk, then add a skid.