My method has always been to keep my vitals off of harmful objects.Now with rock crawling it`s a different story.They head right for what is bound to try to destroy your rig.Hi-steer is one thing I`ll be doing when the Dana60 goes up under my`72.The tie rod is the n=most vulnerable thing under there.Just pulling up to an object to size it up can tweak a tie rod.How do I know?
I`ve always run transfer case skid plates because of the obvious high-center situation.They can be made out of plate real easy and mount to the crossmember.If your driveshafts hit onto anything they`re toast so the idea is align them away from objects and put the tires into or near the big object.Technique is far more valuable a protection device than any piece of hardware.Differential shields that cover the u-joints below is another great idea.I can`t afford to tear my stuff up anymore and my wheelin`style reflects that.My experience has been,If ya wanna play ya gotta pay.I`ll never own a 4wd I won`t wheel.I just wheel them gentler to preserve them and to save a lot of money.