Need help identifying what this plate is that runs across the frame, almost like a cross member or skid plate, right behind the accordion section at the front. Somehow about a year or so ago it got bent (not even sure how, just looked under there one day and it was bent, never bottomed out while offroad or been in a fender bender that would have caused it), and I was looking to either replace it or see if I can just hammer it back out. Anybody else have this happen to them or know what it is?

 

If you had a sway bar it would attach to the back side. Two holes at each end would hold a strap that goes over the sway bar bushing.

Hammer it straight again and you'll be fine.

Hitting water can also bend things. Maybe driving through a big puddle?

 

Didn't think of that, good to know. Is there a big difference between the stock sway bar and not having one at all? Is it worth picking one up?

Hard to remember because it was a couple years ago now, but might have been, only real deep water I ever went through was in Houston and I know it happened before I moved there.

 

Other forum comments I've seen say that they don't make a heckuva lot of difference unless you're racing a heavy hauler on a circular track. I have one, but have no comparison to relate it to. Sorry.

 

PO of my 1996 used it to winch the truck out of the snow. It was bent and pretty much served no purpose apart from being an ugly turd. I made a custom skid plate out of aluminum, wouldn't even consider switching back to a OEM one even if it's in good condition.