Skid plate bolt problem

[bluesman423]

I installed a 4 inch spring lift this weekend then the problem hit.

There are only 3 bolts holding the skid plate/ cross member to the frame. One missing on one side and three missing on the other. There are no nuts or threads to install new bolts, just an open hole.

What is the best solution to this problem? My CJ7 will see mild to medium trail usage and rock crawling, mostly at Disney, OK and Clayton, OK, and I believe I need all the bolts.

Can I drill through the top section of the frame and use a bolt all the way through?

Thanks if you can help.

 

[Torxhead]

This topic was discussed recently and as I recall these were recommended:https://www.jhpfasteners.com/blind_nuts.html.

 

[bluesman423]

This topic was discussed recently and as I recall these were recommended:https://www.jhpfasteners.com/blind_nuts.html.

Looks like what I want to do but ...... they have so many different varieties and now I am confused.

Does anybody have some advice on which one to use for my application? My bolts are 3/8 x 16

 

[Lumpy Grits]

The skid plate bolts are 7/16NC.
Good luck finding a nut insert for that.
Drill the frame out and weld a nut in place.
Then insert a threaded stud and use a flange nut to attach the S'plate
LG

 

[bluesman423]

The skid plate bolts are 7/16NC.
LG

That's funny ..... cause the bolts I got to drop the skid plate are 3/8" I might need to check a little further. The problem is I am mostly blind and have to rely on friends to do the work for me.

 

[Posi]

The correct size skid plate bolt is 3/8” 16