RCI Skid plates and catalytic converter theft

Hi,

Catalytic converter thefts are on the rise again and I’m wondering if a full RCI skid including the transmission plate would create a physical deterrent.

Looking at the pics online it doesn’t appear to provide meaningful extra protection. Can some with RCI full skids please confirm?

 

I don't think it would do a lot. Only pic I have that is relevant. Top right is the driver side cat. Sorry it's not a better pic. I was focused on the tank skid.

 

On facebook you can find Desert Eagle, his skid is designed as a cat theft deterrent. Nice guy to deal with too.

 

Any idea how much the skid costs? I don't use FB and can you use it in combination with other skids?

 

If they have the tools to pull the cat, I’m guess they will also be able to pull the skid plate and then take it for scrap.

 

They use a sawzall. Cut it out and leave, gone in just a minute or two. Thiefs dont bother with removing properly.

 

Makes perfect sense

 

Has anyone on this forum had their cats stolen?

 

I have the OR-FAB version on mine,

 

I don’t remember what I paid, but used it with RCI engine skid. Needed to add a few holes to fit together.

 

Exactly the same. This guy, I think his name's Ken, used to work for Or Fab. Told me the funny story about what happened to Or Fab.

 

Been a while and I don't remember but I think it was under $300. Also, I see you're in Texas, so is he. Might help a lot with shipping.

 

They would not slow me down

 

Last year I took our 4Runner in for the airbag recall. While standing with the adviser in check in line, I heard a Tundra fire up - it sounded like an old grain truck. Service adviser saw me look over real quick when I heard it and non-chalantly said "Cats were stolen. Pretty common because they're usually easy to get to on trucks."

 

We just had a fella get his cat yanked in broad daylight, on private property, armed guards, and patrols. Second one (I know of) inside of 3 years. Seems they're keeping it slow...so as not to cause a ruckus.

 

Have a 2006 DC and my cats were stolen about month ago. Still waiting for new ones. Any new solutions for skid plates that protect.

 

Do a search on this site for Valhalla's Shield Theft Deterrent. There are 50 pages on cat skids. I got the bare metal steel and painted them myself. Highly recommend.

 

They are pretty easy to get to on the 4Runners as well once you are under there.

 

He hasn't made any for the 1st gens...he makes them for the 07 and up.