Ford F-150 Fuel Tank Protection: Skid Plates Standard?

does ford f150 have fuel tank skid plates

Ford F-150 pickup trucks from the years 2009 to 2023 can be fitted with fuel tank skid plates. These plates are designed to protect the underside of the truck's fuel tank, which covers a full 6 feet of the truck, and are especially useful for overlanding or off-road driving. Fuel tank skid plates are available from a variety of manufacturers, including RCI Metalworks, Grimm OffRoad, and Ford itself. They are compatible with all 4x4 and 2WD trucks and can be purchased in steel or aluminum, with some versions featuring a black powder coating for rust resistance.

Characteristics Values
Models 2009-2014 F-150, 2015-2021 F-150, 2015-2022 F-150, 2015-2023 F-150, 2017-2020 Raptor, 2021+ F-150
Fuel Tank Capacity 23/26/36 gallons
Skid Plate Material Metal, Steel, Aluminum
Skid Plate Features Black powder coating, semi-gloss finish, corrosion and wear resistance, drainage holes
Mounting Requires Ford fuel tank straps with studded receivers, slotted mounting holes for easy removal
Installation Easy, can be installed with hand tools, bolts directly onto factory attachment points

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RCI Off Road Fuel Tank Skid Plate for 2015-2023 Ford F-150

The RCI Offroad Fuel Tank Skid Plate is a custom-made skid plate designed to protect the fuel tank of Ford F-150 models from 2015 to 2023. It is crafted with either 11-gauge CNC cut steel or 1/4 inch 5052 aluminium alloy, offering premium quality, fit and finish. This skid plate is a must-have accessory for any Ford F-150 owner looking to safeguard their fuel tank from the hazards of both on-road and off-road driving.

The RCI skid plate is a direct bolt-on application, which means there is no drilling required during installation. It seamlessly attaches to the existing factory points, and all the necessary hardware and easy-to-follow instructions are included for a hassle-free experience. The skid plate covers a full 6 feet of the truck, providing essential protection for the underbody of the fuel tank.

This product is ideal for any overlanding or off-road adventures and is compatible with all 4x4 and 2WD trucks with a '15+ chassis. It fits 36-gallon fuel tanks and can be installed on trucks that came with or without factory skids. The steel version of the skid plate features a black powder coating, providing superior rust resistance and a high-quality finish.

Installation of the RCI Offroad Fuel Tank Skid Plate is a straightforward process that can be completed within minutes. It is important to note that if your Ford F-150 did not come with an OEM fuel tank skid plate, you will need to purchase Ford Fuel tank straps with studded receivers for mounting. These straps can be acquired through RCI Metalworks, ensuring a secure and proper installation.

The RCI Offroad Fuel Tank Skid Plate offers peace of mind and exceptional protection for your Ford F-150's fuel tank. With its sturdy construction and custom fit, you can confidently tackle any terrain knowing that your fuel tank is shielded from potential damage. This product exemplifies RCI Metalworks' commitment to designing automotive accessories that excel in both performance and quality.

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Grimm OffRoad Fuel Tank Skid Plate for 2015-2022 Ford F-150

The Grimm OffRoad Fuel Tank Skid Plate is designed for Ford F-150 models ranging from 2015 to 2022 (or 2023, according to one source). It is intended to protect the underside of your truck, specifically the OEM 36-gallon fuel tank, without compromising on strength. The skid plate is made from TIG welded high-strength steel with strategically placed flanges to reinforce the structure without adding unnecessary weight. This design ensures that the plate can withstand hard hits that would otherwise result in costly off-road recovery and tow fees.

The Grimm OffRoad Fuel Tank Skid Plate is compatible with both 4WD and 2WD trucks, regardless of whether they came with factory skids or not. It includes the fuel tank skid and all the necessary mounting hardware for installation. The slotted mounting holes make it easy to remove the skid plate for routine maintenance, and it can be installed using simple hand tools. Additionally, the integrated drainage holes prevent water from being trapped on top of the skid.

The skid plate is treated with a two-stage, black semi-gloss powder coat finish that protects it from corrosion and provides a sleek look. It is manufactured in the USA and comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

It is important to note that if your truck did not come with stock skids, you will need to purchase new OE fuel tank straps with skid mounting studs to install the fuel tank skid. This product is not compatible with 2021-2022 F-150 Powerboost models.

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OEM fuel tank skid plate

An OEM fuel tank skid plate is a metal plate designed to protect the underbody of a vehicle's fuel tank. Skid plates are particularly useful for off-road driving, where they protect the fuel tank from damage caused by rocks and other obstacles.

Some Ford F-150 models do come with factory-installed skid plates. However, some models do not include skid plates as standard, and owners may choose to install an aftermarket skid plate. One such option is the RCI Skid Plate by RCI Metalworks, which fits Ford F-150 models from 2015 to 2021. This skid plate is made in the USA and is compatible with all 4x4 and 2WD trucks with a '15+ chassis. It features a black powder-coated finish for rust resistance and durability.

If your vehicle did not come with an OEM fuel tank skid plate, you may need to purchase additional mounting hardware for installation. For example, Ford Fuel tank straps with studded receivers are required for mounting the RCI Skid Plate and can be purchased separately.

Another option for the Ford F-150 is the Grimm OffRoad Fuel Tank Skid Plate Kit, which fits models from 2015 to 2022. This kit includes the fuel tank skid and all necessary mounting hardware. The skid plates are made from high-strength steel and feature strategically located flanges for added strength without extra weight. This kit is designed for use with other skid plates but can also be used individually.

Skid plates are a valuable addition to any vehicle, especially those used for off-roading, as they provide essential protection for the fuel tank.

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Ford fuel tank straps

When it comes to Ford F-150 models, the availability of fuel tank straps varies depending on the year and specific model. Some F-150s may come with factory-installed skid plates, while others may not. For those that don't have factory-installed skid plates, fuel tank straps are typically required for mounting a skid plate.

After-market fuel tank straps for the Ford F-150 are available from various suppliers, including RCI Metalworks and Grimm OffRoad. These suppliers offer straps that are compatible with specific F-150 model years. For example, RCI offers straps for F-150 models from 2015 to 2021, while Grimm OffRoad caters to models from 2015 to 2022.

In addition to the F-150, Ford offers fuel tank straps for other models in their F-series, such as the F-250, F-350, and F-450 Super Duty trucks. These straps are also available from third-party suppliers, like A-Premium, who manufacture compatible fuel tank straps for various Ford models, including the F-150, F-250, F-350, and F-450, covering a range of model years.

When purchasing fuel tank straps, it's important to consider the quality and durability of the product. Many customers have praised the A-Premium fuel tank straps for their sturdy construction and affordable price. The installation process for these straps is generally straightforward, and they are designed to securely hold the fuel tank in place, even on rough roads.

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Skid plate installation

If your Ford F-150 did not come with a fuel tank skid plate pre-installed, you can purchase one from Ford or another manufacturer. Fuel tank skid plates are available in metal or aluminum. You can also purchase Ford fuel tank straps with studded receivers to help with mounting.

Some skid plates are designed for easy removal for routine maintenance. For example, slotted mounting holes allow for simple removal without sacrificing coverage and strength. Integrated drainage holes are another feature to look for, as they prevent water from being trapped on top of the skid.

When installing a skid plate, it is important to ensure that it is secure and will not drag on the ground. If you are unsure about the installation process or feel uncomfortable performing it yourself, it is best to consult a professional or a mechanic. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to ensure a safe and proper installation.

Frequently asked questions

A fuel tank skid plate is a protective plate that covers the fuel tank of a vehicle. It is designed to protect the underside of the fuel tank from damage and debris while driving, especially in off-road situations.

It depends on the model year and trim level of the Ford F-150. Some models, such as the 2015-2023 F-150, may come with a factory skid plate, while others may not. It is important to check with the manufacturer or dealer to confirm if your specific model includes a fuel tank skid plate as standard equipment.

There are several options available for purchasing a fuel tank skid plate for your Ford F-150. You can buy an aftermarket skid plate from companies like RCI Metalworks, Grimm OffRoad, or other off-road equipment retailers. Additionally, Ford may offer a metal skid plate for purchase through their parts department or authorised dealers. It is recommended to check with multiple sources to find the best option in terms of price, compatibility, and availability.

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