Bash plate design flaw?

[Dover157]

At the dealer for an oil change and they called me out to look at the underside. Apparently I managed to catch and bend the left front bolt that holds the under engine bash plate in place. Looking at the other three they are semi protected in a recessed area and this one just hangs out there to be smashed on rocks. Hopefully they will be able to get a new bolt in once they convince this one to come out. Asked them to take pics and document it and send it up the chain for the engineers but doubt anyone in Dearborn will pay attention. Couple of pics, does not really show that it’s bent almost 45°

22 BD 2dr with 2.3 and manual before anyone asks.

Sponsored

 

[35tires]

The factory skids are a joke at best. I can't say I'm surprised.


Look how silky smooth the JCR skids are… no bolts getting caught there.

 

[Dover157]

Look how silky smooth the JCR skids are… no bolts getting caught there.

Show off

 

[Aman]

Stupid design. Here is my driver's side after getting the bash plates off. Had to use a u-nut as the welds broke on the captive nut.

 

[35tires]

Based on the language I bet that gets a warranty repair. I think I read where it said you can't deny warranty for it being used off road. That doesn't look like abuse.

I bought replacement skids for the whole underbody before I bought anything else. I think it could be worth it for you.

 

[Dover157]

Stupid design. Here is my driver's side after getting the bash plates off. Had to use a u-nut as the welds broke on the captive nut.

Definitely a poor design choice. Glad to see I’m not the only one that’s done it.

 

[Aman]

Definitely a poor design choice. Glad to see I’m not the only one that’s done it.

Unfortunately, the design leaves critical components vulnerable to damage.

 

[Dover157]

Tech was able to get the bolt out and had a replacement on hand so no permanent damage. Still a frustrating choice by Ford.

Sponsored