Anyone running rock sliders??? How about skid plates??

[CDACamper]

I am considering adding rock sliders over the winter, and I'm looking for some feedback. I don't like the hoop steps that I currently have on my van. They can easily get ripped off, and the biggest issue is when you are stepping out of the van from the side barn doors, it is hard to see where the step is to know where to place your foot. My thought is that, like running boards, the sliders will run the length between the wheels, so you always know it will be underfoot and also add a level of protection.

Questions:
-Is my logic sound on the benefits above?
-Has anyone added sliders on their van, and what did you use? Custom or off the shelf?
-I am thinking I will have to go with a custom setup since there is a lot of stuff under the van that would interfere with attachment, like the propane tank and house battery. Has anyone managed to get sliders in despite the interference?

I have a 47 gallon fuel tank mounted under the van that is completely unprotected (the original tank from Sportsmobile shaped like a coffin and mounted in the center between the frame rails). I have visions of high-centering on a rock and opening it up like a can opener, followed by a big boom and giant fireball. Has anyone added a skid plate to protect the fuel tank or any other areas of the undercarriage? If so, I would love to hear about what you have and how it was done.

I'm not a crazy off-roader, but I do like to get into places that may push the limits a little, and lets face it, it's not all that hard to high-center an EB van. I am running a 6" lift and 34" tires, RIP kit and I'm pretty happy with how it drives. I would rather solve the issue with protection rather than more lift/bigger tires if possible.

I am hoping to get some feedback and ideas before approaching a local fabricator.

[boywonder]

The search button is your friend. There are a few threads on sliders already here.

[CDACamper]

Originally Posted by boywonder

The search button is your friend. There are a few threads on sliders already here.

Yeah, I didn't find much when I searched other than this one that talks about the weldtec version. https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...ded-29066.html I'll do some more digging. I am more looking for feedback on how they work as steps, if they have proven useful and also looking for feedback on the skidplate idea.

[Twoxentrix]

As far a sliders vs running boards, I came across this build about two years ago. Our motivation was more about finding a simple solution to a step that would integrated with running boards so the initial distance from ground to running board would be half what it is now (just more convenient & wouldnt have to carry an extra stool as we currently do). Undermount steps would simply prove too low, and (as you) we have entirely too much stuff mounted underneath which would be covered with an install like that.
In the Pic below the shop fabbed such a step into the slider - positioned where the barn doors are. It just folds down and is secured by two spring loaded pins (one on each side) when in the 'up' position.
Just what I was looking for, but when I reached out to the shops owner he said he made it for the customer, but wasn't interested in making any more. Just sharing since it sounds like something you may be interested in. I'd make the step longer so it covers the span of both doors.

[boywonder]

Originally Posted by CDACamper

Yeah, I didn't find much when I searched other than this one that talks about the weldtec version. https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...ded-29066.html I'll do some more digging. I am more looking for feedback on how they work as steps, if they have proven useful and also looking for feedback on the skidplate idea.

https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...ers-18308.html

https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...wtd-16140.html

https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...ers-16138.html

https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...ders-7661.html

https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...-smb-5452.html

https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...cool-4980.html

https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...iders-121.html

[Twoxentrix]

Originally Posted by CDACamper

Has anyone added a skid plate to protect the fuel tank or any other areas of the undercarriage? If so, I would love to hear about what you have and how it was done.

I have a front skid plate which a local shop made for me. Wasn't successful in finding anything pre-made and/or bolt-on for an e-350, and wanted something which would still allow a decent amount of air-flow. So made one from balsawood and had the shop fabricate using 2" channel-bar. I've only run the front end up on a large tree (which was being used as a parking stop), but it worked as intended - didn't even bend or dent the channel-bar, and lifted the front of the van up about 4-5" ...I did have to touch-up the paint on it though.
More pic's available in my Album (Skid plate is on the bottom of the page, and the mounts made to hold in place are on the top of the page):
https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...wol-page6.html

[CDACamper]

Thank you two. That is an interesting slider design. I don't think the fabtech is the best design for doubling a step. I'm going to talk to my local fab expert and see what they say. Seems like not many here are running true sliders and skids. If I need to prioritize, I think I'll start with protecting the gas tank.

[1der]

Functional Sliders:

Custom by Mike @ Xtreme Fab
XTREME-FAB.COM 2015

[CDACamper]

1der, would you be able to jack the van up using those?

[1der]

I do not know if I would jack there as they are attached to the pinch seam and the body reinforcing channels. Jacking at that location would mean the entire frame, engine, transmission, differentials, etc. would all be suspended from the body grommets and related through bolts. Reach in another 12 or so inches and I would jack on the frame.

re slider function - mine have not been needed as sliders but member gooseberry did unintentionally test his and said they performed well, no body damage.