Hello, I'm Sprenger

I just recently purchased a used 2006 Honda 400ex [look at sig,] from my local Honda dealer. It did not come with any skid plates what so ever, besides the measely little plastic skid plate under the engine.

I was looking at aftermarket skidplates, but they are quite steep. So I plan on making some from 1/4" steel at my dads: he will help me with most of the work. I have the front A-arms measured and I think I'm about ready to start cutting.

I would greatly appreciate any remarks, help, or anything at all.

I realize there are quit a few things to make the rear skid plate around and I could use some tips.

 

quarter inch steel might get a little heavy.

 

very heavy.........but when you start post pics..........i have had 3 after market and they done hold up

 

When you make the swingarm skid plate make sure you give a lot of room under the chain/sprocket and brake rotor.
Your skid plate will bend up towards those when riding over rough terrain.
To bad you can't pick up some aluminum sheet goods and make them out of that. Much, much lighter.
I would also give some thought to using 3/16" as opposed to 1/4". You'd save on weight and 3/16" would be strong enough IMO.
I had a homemade sheet metal skid on my son's Blaster and it worked fine.

 

yea the chain area is always where mine fall apart

 

Be careful, when you hit something or have a bad landing something has to give. Cheaper and easier to replace A-Aarm, tie rod, ect than to replace the whole fram.

 

Hey guys thanks for all your help.

I have decided that i am probably going to buy a 3/16" thick swing arm skid plate of of ebay, i found a nicely built one for around $75 and its free shipping.

I still plan on making my a-arm skids and a engine skid plate.

Any ideas?

Again, thanks
-Sprenger

 

does your 400ex not have ANY steel underneath the engine? no steel plate under the engine that connects the frame tubes?

My quad and a 350raptor have that, I don't see why you would really need more than that unless you plan on riding through a minefield.

 

Besides the measly plastic plate under the engine