JLU Aluminum Belly Skids for 392 Hemi

This page is specifically for Factory 392 Hemi V8 JLU Models. We also offer skids for 2.0 Turbo and 3.6 V6 JLU Models, and 3.0 EcoDiesel JLU Models.

**UPDATE: We now require you to select the style of Oil Pan that your 392 Hemi Jeep Wrangler has. Jeep changed the design in Mid-September in production, and switched from a cast aluminum style oil pan in early production to a stamped steel oil pan in later production. While the early style skid will bolt up underneath either version, the drain plug has moved***

Want to be ready for any trail, any time? Skid plates provide advanced protection for your JL's most critical components -- your engine, transmission, transfer case, DEF tank, and fuel tank -- while you're tackling tough terrain, technical obstacles, and of course for the ride home.

When you're looking to save weight, given the added protection these skids offer over factory pieces, full belly skids become the largest piece of real estate to consider on or under your Jeep.

If you want to watch a walk through video of our JLU skid systems, and what installation looks like, watch the video below! This video shows a V6 system being installed, however the 392 system shares many of the same components. The additional components are detailed in our instructions - however we'll be working on a 392 specific installation video to cover the rear exhaust skid installation in the future!

Product Details

We build these skids out of 1/4" thick 5052 Aluminum because of its superior formability and strength -- compared to many other alloys. The design and shape of the skids largely determine how rigid they will stay over time. We've designed these belly skids to tuck bolt heads up and out of the way, where possible (as can be seen on the rear crossmember and fuel tank skids).

Removal of the factory gas tank skid is required and nets you a 3/4" gain in ground clearance; in addition, you also lose the weight of the factory steel gas tank skid and some of the other steel underbody protection that is replaced with this system. The weight of our system is 125 lbs however the total weight gain is offset by the removal of the factory steel gas tank skid etc as mentioned above.

We also designed these pieces with compatibility in mind for popular aftermarket suspension kits (such as the Rock Krawler Long Arm Suspension), larger axles, and multiple engine choices. Please note that exhaust modifications may be required on Factory 392 Hemi Jeeps for some specific long arm kits. Please talk to your suspension manufacturer about 392 specific compatibility issues!

Photos show pre-production exhaust tip protection -- production models maintain more ground clearance. Click here if you want to see a quick walk around video from underneath the OVRLNDX 392 build featuring these skids.

UHMW - The Ultra High Molecular Weight Option

Want to make these skid plates slippery and even more impact-resistant? Select the UHMW Option! UHMW stands for Ultra High Molecular Weight. It's the 3/8" thick black cutting board like material that can be optioned onto these skids; it is more abrasion resistance than carbon steel, and it's fairly light weight. It helps to better distribute and absorb impacts, and keep you sliding along rather than getting stuck or hanging up on an obstacle since it's slippery and self lubricating. If you select this option, the UHMW will come pre-installed on the bottom of the aluminum skids.

FAQ:

How do I know which oil pan option to choose?
Early Production 392 JLU's were equipped with a cast aluminum oil pan, with a bare aluminum finish. Later 392 JLU's came with a smooth stamped steel oil pan, with a black painted finish.

Can I swap in a newer style oil pain?
No, unfortunately, the bolt pattern for the oil pans are not a match. Early production models have a hellcat bolt pattern, and the later style uses a standard hemi bolt pattern.

Is a lift required for clearance to suspension components?
No lift or bump stop extension is required for factory Hemi 392 V8 models.

Will this system work with my long arm suspension kit?
These belly skids will work with Rock Krawler, EVO, and Teraflex* Long Arm kits. Please speak with your suspension manufacturer directly to confirm that the long arm kit will clear the factory 392 exhaust as it does differ from previous JLU models!

*Teraflex long arm kits do require slight modification to the fuel tank skid as this suspension kit relocates the rear lower control arms underneath the frame rail where the fuel tank skid would otherwise interfere -- 5 minutes with a cutoff wheel prior to installation resolves this issue.

Can I add the UHMW Kit later?
Yes; however you will have to remove your belly skids if they are already installed. There is labor and less steps involved if you order the system equipped with UHMW originally.

Additional Details

Products are designed and fabricated to fit vehicles that have varying tolerances from the factory, minor hand fitting may be required.

Products are shipped bare metal unless otherwise specified by the customer. Bare metal products may have scratches or surface imperfections as a result of raw material handling, manufacturing, and fabrication. However, these imperfections are easily covered up with a textured powder coat finish. Additional finishing, sanding, and prep work may be required if you wish to also have them finished with a smooth powder coat or paint.

Projected lead times are estimates only, and are subject to changes due to production realities, including material and labor availability and sudden variability in order volume. Lead times are not guaranteed, but we do guarantee that we are hard at work trying to get the best product we can produce and into our customers’ hands as quickly as possible.

All Next Venture Motorsports products are laser cut, CNC formed, and hand-weld with pride in the USA. We are a Colorado-based business, and welcome visitors by appointment at our Grand Junction, CO headquarters. We hope to see you out there on the trail soon!