difference between 77 and 79 trans. skid plates?

[GoldenEagle36]

what are the differences between 77 and 79 skidplates? im trying to put a 77 skid plate underneath a 79 frame and i used the original engine,Transmission , and Transfer Case . its just not lining up. can someone please help me!!

 

[IOPort51]

how far off are you?? even when you have the original plate it takes a bit of finesse to put all the bolts in. I bolt the Transmission /Transmission mount to the plate first and then find the frame holes. you have more leverage that way.

 

[GoldenEagle36]

now i have come to conclusion of one thing....... my friend has a 79 CJ7 frame and the shock mounts are welded on, mine has the pillar that bolts to the frame by three bolts. therefore i have an earlier model frame, in which i cant use my 77 skidplate because of how many bolt holes there are.

 

[IOPort51]

Where is it written that you can't put more holes in a skid plate?? Will the Transmission mount holes fit the skid plate when it is not bolted to the Transmission ?? The frame is the same width? can you just put four more holes in the plate to attach to the frame??

 

[Sasquach]

My 78 plate has different sets of holes for various power train combinations and appears to be factory.

 

[GoldenEagle36]

welp im using the 77 skid plate on my 80-86 frame. i am just going to put some grade A bolts straight through the frame.

 

[IOPort51]

would it not be easier to drill holes in the plate to line up with the threaded holes that are already in the frame??

welp im using the 77 skid plate on my 80-86 frame. i am just going to put some grade A bolts straight through the frame.

 

[GoldenEagle36]

welll... ill just drill through it will probably be easier and i have the bolts to do it.