Iron Baltic Canada Skid Plates: Aluminium vs. Plastic
When you’re off-roading, protecting your vehicle’s undercarriage is a must. Skid plates are the unsung heroes that stand between your vehicle and the rough terrain, guarding its vital components from damage. But when it comes to choosing the right skid plates for your vehicle, you’re faced with a choice of materials. Two of the most popular options are aluminum and plastic. In this article, we’ll be looking at the differences between aluminum and plastic skid plates.
The main difference between Iron Baltic Canada's aluminum and plastic skid plates for ATVs lies in their material properties and construction: Let’s take a closer look at the unique properties of these two materials and the impressive thickness provided by Iron Baltic Canada in both types of skid plates.
Known for its impressive strength-to-weight ratio, aluminum is the go-to for a lightweight yet sturdy skid plate. Its corrosion resistance makes it a top pick for vehicles that brave the elements or harsh, corrosive environments. Aluminum skid plates are made from marine-grade aluminum, offering superior durability and protection compared to plastic. They are CNC cut, bent, and TIG welded for structural rigidity and strength, even in extreme off-road conditions. And here's a bonus: it's a heat whisperer, dispersing heat like a pro and keeping your ride's components cool as possible.
Material: Corrosion resistant marine aluminium, CNC cut, CNC bend, TIG weld, brushed
Thickness: 4 mm / 3/16"
Weight: 16-24 kg / 35-53 lb
# Plastic:
- Plastic skid plates are made from high-density polyethylene (PE-HWU), which is tough yet flexible enough to regain its shape after impacts. They have excellent sliding properties, corrosion/chemical resistance, and UV protection down to -50°C/-58°F. It’s great at shrugging off dents and dings, which makes it perfect for those rocky rides or when you hit an unexpected bump. It’s also super flexible, so it can bend and mold to the lay of the land without cracking or breaking. And bonus: it’s a pro at soaking up vibrations, so you get a smoother, quieter ride.
Plastic Technical Information:
Material: Black HDPE plastic
- Thickness: 10 mm / 3/8"
- Weight: 16-24 kg / 35-53 lb
Skid Plate Features: Both Aluminum and Plastic skid plates come with full protection of bottom and front parts of the ATV. Openings for mud draining and washing. Holes for oil changing. Holes for plow mounting kits. Fasteners and instructions are also enclosed. Below are the key features.
|
Full coverage skid plates – fully protect the bottom and front part as well as the control arms, drive shafts etc. Reinforced front parts – most skid plates have additional welded protection at the front bottom as this area takes most of the impacts and requires additional protection. Bent sides – the upward bent sides add rigidness and structural integrity and offer protection to important plastic details of the vehicle. Welded corners – most of the corners are TIG - welded. Multi-part design – the skid plate is combined with separately removable pieces to make replacing damages areas easier and vehicle maintenance simpler and faster. Holes for mud draining and washing – opening to ease the draining of mud and water through the bottom. Holes for oil changing – making possible to change motor, transmission and reducer oil without removing the skid plate. Holes for plow mounting kits – easy attachment for all Iron Baltic plows. Bowl-shaped washers – special washers which protect the screw bolt heads making it possible to remove them later easy. Detailed installation instructions – all skid plates come with detailed specifications, illustrated step-by-step installation instructions and separately package and numbered parts and fasteners. |
Costs: Ofcourse when it comes to costs, aluminum is on the high side while plastic is for the budget conscious buyer. Both types of skid plates serve the same purpose - to provide solid protection for your ATV's undercarriage against impacts with rocks, tree stumps, and other hazards when driving off-road. The choice between aluminum or plastic depends on your specific needs and priorities in terms of durability, weight, and cost.
-
No matter what material you choose, Iron Baltic Canada is committed to offering the thickest skid plates available. Our dedication to providing the best protection means your vehicle is guarded against the most extreme hazards you may encounter on your off-road adventures.Explore our Skid Plates HERE