METALCLOAK VIDEO: How To Install: MetalCloak JL Wrangler/JT Gladiator RockSport Axle Disconnect Skid Plate Upgrade Kit
This guide walks through replacing the factory skid plate and steering stabilizer mounts on a Jeep JL Wrangler or JT Gladiator with the MetalCloak RockSport Axle Disconnect Skid Plate Upgrade Kit. It covers verifying parts, removing the stock track bar bolt and steering stabilizer, installing the RockSport axle mount and skid plate, mounting the RockSport steering stabilizer and tie rod bracket, measuring for correct stabilizer placement, and torqueing hardware to restore full lock-to-lock steering movement.
Complete Transcript with Time Stamps:
[00:00] Hey, Scott Becker with MetalCloak here.
[00:06] We're going to replace the weak skid plate and steering stabilizer mounts that come factory on your Jeep with our RockSport Axle Disconnect Skid Plate Upgrade Kit.
[00:12] Before we do that, let's go to metalcloakinstructions.com and print out and read completely through them.
[00:18] Once we understand what we're getting into and we're certain we have the necessary tools, we can start on the install.
[00:24] Now let's go down to the shop and get started.
[00:30] Our Jeep is already in a safe location and ready to be worked on.
[00:36] So we're gonna unbox the contents and verify that all the parts listed on the instructions page are accounted for before we start to take apart our Jeep.
[00:42] Looks like we're good to go!
[00:48] The pieces we will be removing are located right under here on the Jeep.
[00:54] This particular skid comes with the MetalCloak RockSport Steering Stabilizer.
[01:00] Now we'll start by using a 20mm socket and we'll remove the stock track bar bolt at the axle.
[01:06] Install the steering stabilizer axle mount using the provided 22mm track bar bolt and hand tighten.
[01:12] Mark and center punch the second hole and drill with a 3/8" drill bit.
[01:18] MetalCloak recommends painting any exposed metal to prevent rust.
[01:24] Now using a 14mm socket and wrench, let's install the provided nut and bolt into the drilled hole hand-tight.
[01:30] Tighten all the axle mount hardware now.
[01:36] We're now going to remove the stock steering stabilizer using an 18mm socket and wrench.
[01:42] Using a 13mm socket, remove the 3 bolts holding the steering stabilizer plate to the axle.
[01:48] Save all the hardware.
[01:54] Using a 10mm socket, remove the four stock axle disconnect skid bolts.
[02:00] Align the MetalCloak Front Axle Skid Plate to the existing holes and install the 13mm stock stabilizer bracket hardware hand tight.
[02:06] Install the provided hardware into the bottom of the skid plate using a 6mm Allen wrench or socket.
[02:12] Tighten all the FAD skid hardware.
[02:18] Using the provided bolt, washer, and nut, install your steering stabilizer into the axle mount.
[02:24] Place the provided tie rod mount on top of the tie rod, making sure the sloped end is facing the driver's side.
[02:30] Add the U-bolts, Nylock nuts, and washers to hold the mount in place.
[02:36] Attach the steering stabilizer to the tie rod mount and use the supplied washer and nut to secure the steering stabilizer to the bracket.
[02:42] To find the correct location for your steering stabilizer, measure the stabilizer in the fully collapsed position eye to eye, and then measure the stabilizer in the fully extended position eye to eye, and place the tie rod mount in the center of the two measurements.
[02:54] This should allow full movement of your steering lock to lock.
[03:00] Tighten the tie rod mount nylock nuts with a 7/16" socket.
[03:06] Tighten all the steering stabilizer hardware using an 18mm socket and wrench.
[03:12] Make sure all the hardware is fully tightened.
[03:18] Once the hardware is fully tightened, make sure your steering can turn lock to lock.
[03:24] Now that we're done, all there is to do is to go out and enjoy your Jeep.
[03:30] To learn more, visit us at metalcloak.com.
[03:36] MetalCloak it's your Jeep, only better.
For more information about this kit CLICK HERE.