So I picked up a factory gas skid a few months ago and attempted to install it before work today...

This was a bad idea... I have no clue how to get this bastard on. Looking at my build sheet it does not appear that I have a tow package but I do have a hitch (not sure if its factory of installed by the PO. The gas tank has/had the little plastic thing over it with the two metal brackets. I also have the nut strip for factory skid. SO my questions are...
1. Do I still need the nut strips even though I have the two metal brackets that held the plastic skid plate in place?
2. If I do need to use the nut strips where the hell does it go? I don't see any open slots or any where to put them...
If anyone has any pictures of one installed it would be of great help. I can have my fiance take some pics of the skid plate or anything like that if it would help any one as I'm getting ready to head into work.


Thanks a million, with any luck I'll be able to finish this install soon I hope haha.

Edit: I did do a brief search on this forum and the web but didn't have time to do a full search like I normally would before posting, so I apologize if this has already been covered, also I did look through my Haynes manual and of course it said nothing of the skid plate... I knew I should have bought a FSM instead lol

 

You have to take off the rear bumper to access the nut strips that hold the hitch on. Once you get the bumper off you will know exactly what to do.

 

Do I need to remove the hitch as well or just the rear bumper?
Edit:

Also should I drop the gas tank completely?

 

If the skid plate mounts to the same bolts the hitch does then yes.

 

I wouln't drop the gas tank If its not neseccary. I would need to see a picture of the skid plate. If it covers the gas tank then there should be no need to drop it.

 

No need to drop the tank. Remove the rear bumper, didnt take notice to your location but if your in a rust area, the bolts may break, be prepared. Once the bumper is off, there is a hole in each side of the body where the nut stips simply slide in

 

Alright so keep the plastic shield on with the metal brackets holding the tank in place and remove the rear bumper and might have to remove the hitch as well. I live in AZ so rust free for me :-)