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They changed the skid plate in 97 and it won't fit older Cherokees I believe. The straps definitely do not have to be touched to install the skid plates though. Definitely do some googling before just trying to jump into it. You have a metal tank which makes me believe you would need an older style skid plate.
So here is another pic. Nothing between the pseudo skid plate and straps.
OK so if it gets in the way for some reason and you decide to cut it off you definitely want to make sure and leave what is between the straps and the tank. They have to have something soft like that or rubber between them. I have tried it without any a couple times over the years and the strap will indeed cut into the tank in short order from just vibration. You wouldn't think it would move when it's tight but it does anyways. But I know I don't need to suggest not using a cutting wheel or saw. If you could borrow a hot knife it would be much easier than a razor knife.
But if it bolts up fine around that it with in in place you should be good.
I'm going to eliminate it except for what's under the straps so that I can flush the debris out of there every once in a while. I've cut through heavier stuff than that with a sharp razor knife but I may be able to locate a hot knife. After that the only other thing in the way would be the tailpipe but removing the u-clamp will let me get the room I need.
I'm going to eliminate it except for what's under the straps so that I can flush the debris out of there every once in a while.
Absolutely, that was my thoughts about having it free and clear under there. And I would leave enough to come up each side of the strap well to the plane where it turns flat. This way it can't wiggle out from under the strap later, because it will try to. The rubber ones like mine used to do it all the time.
Originally Posted by EZEARL
After that the only other thing in the way would be the tailpipe but removing the u-clamp will let me get the room I need.
I was going to ask about that. my pipe is within 3/8ths of an inch from mine. and when I put mine back on after the pump job I had to bend the pipe so that it didn't rattle against the plate. I had to use a block of wood between the pipe and the leaf spring/rail as a fulcrum point then stick a long 2" pipe in the exhaust to bend it against the block and away from the plate a just a bit more.
Last edited by Bugout4x4; Mar 8, 2018 at 12:54 PM.
