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BT Tech Skid Plate rust on frame mount tabs

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Accessories & Modifications' started by Ds001001, Dec 1, 2021.

  1. Ds001001

    Ds001001 Member

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    FYI if you have BT tech skid plate and haven’t looked at it in a while, check the tabs that it mounts to on the front of the frame for rust… on mine 1 has completely rusted off, 2 have cracks and are about to break off and another a bolt seized in it and I had to cut it off (that’s likely my fault for changing the bolt out).

    I’m going to take some bookcase shelf brackets and epoxy/rivet them on and see if that works as a replacement/reinforcement
     
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  2. SFO

    SFO Senior Member

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    I have an uninstalled plate, but none of the associated hardware, including the 'wings' that mount near the wheel wells. There was a plan to recreate the kit for others, but some steam has been lost. Could you post pics of the rusted bits/clips/tabs?
    Please do a write up with pics of the mod process to share with others.
     
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  3. alftoy

    alftoy Senior Member

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    Not sure if these pics are suitable.

    BT Tech Prius Skid Plate | Flickr
     
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  4. Ds001001

    Ds001001 Member

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    I had a supplier of my dads company make a clone of it in like 2010, with addition of insulation , but it needed another revision which he didn’t have the time to do. If he still has the measurement files for it, would probably need to order like 50 to make it worth his time.

    I have some of the side fins in storage in Indiana, can get them next year when I go in the fall.

    Some true value and Ace’s have an automotive bolts section where you can get the clips.

    I’ll post pics next week when I work on a fix for the rusted attachment points
     
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  5. SFO

    SFO Senior Member

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    Thought I had seen that install before, but don't remember seeing the updated (more rectangle shaped) bumper piece, and I'm not sure if any of the BT kits ever shipped with that, it also looks to be made from a bit thinner material. I did attempt to reach out to Evan years ago, but never heard back, can only assume that the heavy duty moderation work load got in the way.

    Others claim the BT supplied skinny piece is useless and gets caught on parking lot curbs, etc. Always thought that having something that could extend forward and reach up and over/under the bumper, then mount under the license or nearby would be the best, similar to how other skids are used.
     
  6. SFO

    SFO Senior Member

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    Would be interesting to see what the cost would be, as I've looked into other options (local and online, various metals/thicknesses, and even composites) and none felt all that affordable when compared to the original MSRP. Could be material inflation, or trying to keep it manufactured locally, but a smaller metal brake and a drill press seem pretty straight forward for production tools.
    This would move things along for sure.
    I've also noticed that some of the Ace locations in the suburbs can be quite complete. Preaviously put some research effort into replacing the bolts with quick release fasteners, but couldn't find what I envisioned (low profile and somewhat secure). Thought it might be a nice upgrade.
    Can't wait to see the 'fix'.