Rating of the best crankcase and gearbox protection in 2022

The cover is a direct part of the crankcase and gearbox for trucks, cars. It fulfills the important mission of protecting against impacts caused by road potholes, rocks or any other unwanted elements that may be encountered while driving. This is usually a large piece of metal, fiberglass, or fiber that is easy to spot by bending over and looking under the front of the car.

Often they are neglected, paying a minimum of attention, this is not at all right. Obviously, this element is not as important as the brake system, wheels, but its installation can save the car from costly repairs. A spare part, as a rule, costs from 400 to 30,000 rubles, depending on the type of vehicle, the year of manufacture of the car. In our review, we will provide recommendations: what to look for in order not to make a mistake when choosing a product, which company model is better to buy. We will get acquainted with popular manufacturers, a description of their devices, we will orient you at an average price

Type of protection

Today, this element is included in the standard equipment of almost all vehicles of domestic and foreign production. This was not always the case, because cheaper and smaller car models did without it. As the name implies, the crankcase cover is an element that protects important parts of the engine. It is located at the bottom of the machine, as a result, it is constantly subjected to impacts. If you are driving on paved roads, then the risk of hitting a bump is not as great as when driving off-road, on a very steep ramp, or when climbing a high curb.

There are a lot of potholes on the roads, sharp level changes, so it's easy to get hit on the underside of the body. The lower the car, the more likely that this section of the car will touch the ground. Since the crankcase covers almost the entire area of ​​the engine compartment from below, it can become a refuge for animals (for example, cats) in winter, which can cause problems.Installing a guard keeps the engine bay cleaner as it reduces the amount of dust, dirt and water that can get in when driving on the roads or on rainy days.

Keep in mind that due to wheel tread or loss of traction, stones can bounce with considerable force. Obviously, they will damage the crankcase and gearbox, leave dents, and can deform the mounting bolts. The pallet prevents damage to the elements of the car or significantly reduces the scale of the disaster. It protects in case of possible friction on the road surface, even if the cover is deformed, the lower part of the motor will remain intact.

In the event of damage to the crankcase, serious consequences are possible. If the impact breaks or damages the underside of the engine, the engine will begin to lose oil after a few minutes, leaving a long trail of grease on the ground, causing problems for other road users. If the oil runs out, irreparable damage may occur to the car, such as seizing the engine.

To all of the above, it is important to add one more essential function of the device. The fact is that it works as a lower fairing, which is taken into account by engineers at the development stage, often the cover is made of composite materials. By covering the front of the underbody, it improves the aerodynamics of the machine and also acts as an acoustic insulator to slightly reduce rolling and noise.

If we talk about the types of products, the most famous are two: plastic and metal. As a rule, modern vehicles are supplied with plastic pallets, some car brands (for example, Dacia Sandero) have aluminum models:

1. The reasons why plastic is used much more often are simple, clear and consistent.It is lighter, easier to handle during repairs or maintenance, and reduces overall vehicle weight. Of course, plastic is much cheaper than steel, which allows the manufacturer to save on costs and offer the end user a lower price.

2. Metal pallet - usually made of aluminum, has increased specific strength, more efficient shock load distribution. It is used on SUVs that will be used outside of asphalt, for example, the Mercedes-Benz GLC almost never leaves city roads, "Jeep Wrangler" often rides over bumps.

In this sense, manufacturers "care" more about machines that can potentially be used in hard-to-reach places, mountain serpentines, ruts, difficult ascents and descents, on rough terrain. Thicker stainless steel covers are often seen on these vehicles.

Malfunctions of the crankcase cover and gearbox

Now let's deal with the most common malfunctions and breakdowns in this part of the technique. Due to time, temperature, and vehicle use, the skid plate may bend. Loss of the fixing screw may occur due to shock or vibration of the motor.

Usually, if one bolt is lost, nothing happens, but if there are several, the pallet can drag on the ground, creating significant inconvenience during movement. If it falls or dangles, it must be quickly repaired, as it can catch on the asphalt and hit hard on some part of the bottom, which will lead to breakage. With a few simple flanges, you can screw it to the structure at the attachment points to avoid danger.

If the pallet falls off and ends up on the road, an emergency will arise with all the ensuing consequences. On the other hand, if there is an oil leak and the model is made of plastic, it will gradually deform. Motor grease is deposited, sand and other contaminants accumulate, the cover weighs more and more, which worsens the aerodynamics of the equipment.

How to remove the protective tray

Dismantling the device is easy, you need to do it on a lift. Typically, the plate is attached with relatively small screws to the subframe or engine mount, and in some cases it can be bolted to the front bumper with three or four bolts. When the machine is on the ground or raised with several jacks, the task becomes more difficult and more inconvenient due to the limited work space.

For easy and safe dismantling, it is best to loosen (without removing them completely) all screws with a ratchet. After this operation, we finish unscrewing them with one hand, and with the other we press on the base plate so that it does not sag. If you do not hold it, it will fall, as a result of which the plastic may break, injuring you.

Where could I buy

Budget novelties are purchased in car dealerships, supermarkets. Managers will tell you the points you are interested in: how much the model you like costs, what they are. The device can be looked after in the online store by ordering online.

Rating of high-quality crankcase and gearbox protection for 2022

Our list is based on real reviews, it takes into account the opinion of buyers familiar with the product, its functions. Here you will find photos and comparison tables.

Inexpensive

ALFeco ALF2019.2st for Skoda, Volkswagen

ALFeco underbody protection steel plates are an economical and reliable option for impact protection. Protectors are produced at the former defense plant in Nizhny Tagil. They do not affect the temperature of the engine, since the air that cools the engine enters through the radiator, and not through the bottom of the equipment. And since the metal has a high thermal conductivity, it prevents overheating.

During the production of the protector, 3D scanning of the vehicle surface is used, as a result, high dimensional accuracy of the product is achieved. Not all models have oil drain holes, their presence depends on the brand of the car and the location of the filter relative to the design of the car. "ALFeco" is made using stamping technology. The protector has stiffening ribs that increase reliability and resistance to damage.

Thanks to the use of products from "ALFeco", the loss of clearance between the bottom and the road will be minimal. In addition, not all vehicles have a subframe at the lowest point, so on some brands the tread does not affect the ride height. Most of the ALFeco products are equipped with rubber plugs (shock absorbers) that absorb vibrations, noise and guarantee the tightest attachment of the protector to the bottom of the vehicle. In the kit you will find screws, installation instructions.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Type of protection	Carter, gearbox
Material	Steel
Car model (detail)	Skoda Roomster (2010-2015); Skoda Rapid (2015-); Volkswagen Polo IV (2005-2009); Volkswagen Polo Sedan/Polo V (2010-2015); Volkswagen Polo Sedan (2015-).
Stiffening rib	+
Fasteners included	+
Thickness	2 mm

• "ALFeco" are made of cold-rolled metal, which is very ductile;
• the surface is painted with powder anti-corrosion enamel;
• metal thickness 2-2.5 mm;
• service life is 5 years.

• not detected.

Lada 2170 Priora/2110 07 Avtoarmor 1060181

To your attention the protector of the motor, crankcase and gearbox from the Russian company "Motodor". It was created specifically for vehicles of the Lada Priora brand. Mounting screws are sold as a set. The thickness of the metal is 1.5 mm, which is more than enough for both urban asphalt and rural off-road. The popularity of the models of the brand "Motodor" is very high in the Russian market.

The company is a leader in the use of hot-rolled metal in the production technology of its products. This material is endowed with an increased power reserve, 1.5 times greater than that of cold rolled steel. Protective plates are made individually for each brand of equipment, the selection criteria must correspond to the volume of the motor and the year of production of the equipment. All protectors undergo rigorous inspection by the company's engineers. They are designed in such a way as to maintain optimal heat transfer and not increase overheating of the engine compartment.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Material	Steel
Country	Russia
Protection	Engine, gearbox
Thickness	2 mm
fasteners	+
Number of sheets	1
Engine	1.6
Guarantee	24 months

• made of hot rolled metal;
• increased strength;
• thickness from 2 to 8 mm;
• stiffening rib.

• not detected.

Sheriff for VAZ (LADA) Vesta 1 generation (SHRF272984V1)

The protector of the crankcase, gearbox and other components is an important feature of any VAZ (LADA) brand, including the 1st generation Vesta operated in Russia. When you buy equipment and want to explore the expanses of our vast country, all you need to worry about is the safety of the motor and its components. Sheriff is a good choice, as evidenced by the popularity of the brand in Russia.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
vendor code	101445
Manufacturer	Sheriff (Russia)
Manufacturer code	SHRF272984V1
Type of	crankcase protection
Material	Steel
Coloring	Powder
fasteners	Complete, galvanized
Note	Steel 1.8 mm

• the Sheriff pallet will reliably secure the engine compartment of the car, eliminating unnecessary repairs due to hitting bumps and curbs, water, dirt ingress (the design includes steel wings that perform the function of an anther).
• Sheriff has holes for engine purge, which ensures temperature stability;
• powder coating applied using a special technology is highly resistant to damage and prevents corrosion;
• rubber shock absorbers are provided at the attachment points with the body, minimizing noise and vibration during movement;
• the plate has slots for draining the lubricant, replacing the oil filter, which reduces the amount of finance required for the maintenance of the vehicle;
• the device improves the aerodynamics of the 1st generation VAZ LADA Vesta, making its body streamlined, increasing grip;
• engineers design the product taking into account the personal characteristics of the machine, installation is carried out only on standard holes using reliable bolts;
• The protector is made by stamping, which significantly improves its technological parameters and structural strength.

• not detected.

NLZ.99.02.030 NEW Haval H6

"NLZ.99.02.030" protects the crankcase and transmission elements from damage. The plate has reliable stiffening ribs that guarantee additional strength to the device. Polyester powder enamel prevents premature rusting. It is important to note the presence in the technological process during the production of products of precision laser welding equipment, power presses and the latest painting line.

For the manufacture of pallets, only cold-rolled metal is used. Installation "NLZ.99.02.030" does not provide for unnecessary intervention in the vehicle structure, standard technological holes are used. The set includes fasteners made of steel with a cathodic zinc coating, which has a positive effect on the quality of the thread even during long-term use. It should be added that there are holes on the plate for draining motor lubricant.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
vendor code	135985
Manufacturer	NLZ (Russia)
Manufacturer code	NLZ.99.02.030 NEW
Type of	crankcase protection
Material	Steel
Coloring	Powder
Oil change holes	+
fasteners	Complete, galvanized

• cold rolled steel;
• oil drain holes;
• powder coating.

• not detected.

Medium

Auto Armor Ford Tourneo Custom 2017-, V-2.2D

Steel armor "Ford Tourneo Custom" protects the crankcase and gearbox from damage. In addition to the product, fasteners, installation instructions are provided.The device is suitable for Ford "Tourneo Custom", "Transit" models of 2012 - 2018 production.

If you become the owner of these protectors, you will not have to worry about damage to the engine compartment while driving off-road or urban obstacles in the form of curbs or hatches.

Some plates are equipped with technological slots (depending on the brand of vehicle) for changing lubricants, they are covered with special rubber plugs (dampers). Mounting the armor slightly affects the body clearance.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Thickness, mm	2
Material	Steel
Manufacturer	AutoArmor
Height, mm	110
Width, mm	685
Length, mm	960
Weight, kg	12.5
Car model	Tourneo Custom

• favorable cost / quality ratio;
• the product is designed taking into account the features of the machine, which makes its installation simple;
• guaranteed safety of the crankcase and transmission elements for a long time;
• deep stamping allows you to strengthen the structure additionally, including at the attachment points;
• the plate has holes with rubber dampers, which are necessary for changing the lubricant, draining the liquid;
• metal thickness 2 mm.

• not detected.

Rival Kia Optima IV Article 333.2837.1

"Rival" prevents damage to the underside of the machine, for example when driving over curbs. It performs an aesthetic function, during installation on high chassis, the vehicle acquires an attractive appearance. The item is made from 2 types of material. Aluminum pallets are 2 times thicker than steel pallets and weigh 30% less.It perfectly removes heat from the motor over the entire surface, which protects the engine from overheating in summer or during high loads.

Unlike steel, aluminum protectors are not subject to corrosion, which guarantees a product service life of more than 5 years. "Rival" have a coating of powder enamel, which retains the original appearance of the tread for a long time, protects against galvanic corrosion. It is necessary to note the deep stamping, which additionally reinforces the protection structure. Technological openings necessary for changing oil and draining water are provided with plugs securely attached to the pan.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
The weight	5.8 kg
Engine	V - 2.0 (150/245 hp); 2.4 (188 HP) (16-18) / 2.4 (188 HP) (18-) / 2.0 (150 HP) automatic transmission (18-)
Equipment	Protection - 1 piece, packaging, fasteners, instructions
Fastening	+
Body	All
Sheets	1
Material	Aluminum
Other	The stamp is. Oil drain hole - no. The hole for changing the filter - no. Cap for the hatch - no.
The size	755x810x30 mm
Gearbox type	All/Automatic transmission
Thickness	3 mm
Color	Grey
What protects	Carter, checkpoint
vendor code	333.2837.1

• Rival has excellent value for money;
• Designed according to the needs of machinery, easy installation;
• provides reliable protection of important elements for many years;
• the set includes installation instructions;
• the absence of stamping at the attachment points protects the latch from shifting;

• not detected.

Rival 333.2736.1 for Jeep

Rival aluminum pallets ensure that the underside of your vehicle is protected from damage. This is especially important when driving off-road, rough terrain, accidentally hitting curbs.Protectors perform an aesthetic function, their installation provides an attractive appearance of equipment.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Brand	Rival
vendor code	333.2736.1
Type of	Crankcase / gearbox protection
Manufacturer country	Russia
Package	vacuum
Material	Aluminum
Type of equipment	Cars
Brand TS	Jeep
Color	Grey
Packed weight, g	3700

• the thickness of aluminum plates is twice that of steel;
• perfectly removes heat from the motor, which prevents the engine from overheating in summer or during high loads;
• unlike steel, aluminum protectors are not subject to corrosion, which guarantees their service life of more than 5 years;
• powder coating preserves the original appearance of the product and protects against galvanic corrosion;
• deep punching strengthens the plate structure;
• "Understamping" at the attachment points protects the nozzle from displacement;
• technological openings for changing oil and draining water are equipped with plugs securely attached to the pan;
• in addition to the main functionality - protection against impacts, the design significantly reduces the ingress of moisture and dirt into the engine compartment;
• The kit includes installation instructions.

• not detected.

Expensive

Volkswagen Golf V, VI, 3T43T5, SEAT Leon, 12-Altea Free track, 07-, AL 5

The plate "Sheriff" protects the bottom, is an important safety element of the equipment. It protects the main mechanical parts from damage, breakage as a result of impacts. The pallet is designed individually for each brand by specialized engineers, then custom-made using the latest cutting, welding or stamping technologies.

The part is treated with an anti-corrosion coating, has ventilation slots and a hole for removing liquids, dirt, and replacing filters (depending on the model). Sheriff products have a folded or stamped (reinforced) design. The steel plates are made using special technology and coated with high quality electrostatic paint. The design includes stops that prevent contact of the plate with the chassis. The product is easy to install without drilling equipment.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
vendor code	26.1989
Brand	Sheriff
Country of Origin	Russia
Material	Aluminum
Package dimensions and weight	87x95x8 cm, 12 kg
Suitable for:	SEAT Altea FreeTrack 2004-2009; SEAT Altea FreeTrack 2009-2015; SEAT Leon 2012-2016; SKODA Superb 2008-2013; SKODA Superb 2013-2015; VOLKSWAGEN Golf V 2003-2009; VOLKSWAGEN Golf VI 2008-2013.

• holes through which oil and dirt drain;
• electrostatic paint;
• easy installation.

• not detected.

ABC-Design 14.23k for Mitsubishi

AVS-Design products are made of composite material, its basis is a polymer structure containing reinforcing components (fibers, dispersed compacted elements, monolithic plastic). The bonding adhesive is an epoxy vinyl ester resin. Pressing takes place under a pressure of six atmospheres in an airless environment. During reinforcement, composite elements are created that are very resistant to impacts, characterized by an increased modulus of elasticity (rigidity, compressive strength).

The strength of the composite exceeds steel by one and a half times.The advantage of the polymer is its elasticity, during the production of the product it is possible to perfectly adjust its shape to the configuration of the vehicle bottom. "AVS-Design" guarantees the safety of the engine department during off-road driving and transmission elements from the penetration of water and dirt. It should be noted that the tread controls the air flow in the lower part of the body, improving aerodynamics and ground clearance. The composite plate has less mass relative to the steel counterpart, it does not rust, it is neutral to the reagents that are sprinkled on the roadway in winter.

Plastic, after hitting a curb and getting damaged, can take its original shape, thanks to the polymer base. If you have an accident, there will be a frontal impact, the composite tread will crack and nothing will prevent the motor from moving down, giving the driver more opportunity to avoid irreparable consequences. The product can operate from + 120 C to -60 C, which covers the entire range of summer and winter temperatures. It is important to note that the device does not emit harmful chemicals, while the lungs of passengers will remain intact. Plastic, which is used in production, has sanitary and epidemiological certificates of state regulatory authorities of the Russian Federation.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Manufacturer's article	14.23k
Country of Origin	Russia
Model	Underbody protection kit 14.23k for Mitsubishi L-200, V-all; (2015-) except Invite/Pajero Sport, V-all 2016
Brand	ABC-Design
car model	Mitsubishi
Car model	l200
engine's type	Diesel; petrol
Gearbox type	automatic transmission; manual transmission
Amount of elements	2
Protection	+
Mounting kit	+
Equipment	Bolt m8x35; bolt m8x50; bolt m10x40; washer increased m8; spring washer m8; spring washer m10; nut m10; bracket; reinforced washer m8; reinforced washer m10
Color	Black
Material	Composite

• layered structure and the presence of rubber pads reduce the level of noise, vibration from various machine units while driving;
• strong, reliable construction.

• not detected.

Rival K333.3601.1 for Maserati

Under the RIVAL brand, popular vehicle accessories are produced. The company produces a huge variety of devices that fit many car models. All products are available in warehouses, which guarantees the ability to deliver to customers in Moscow within a couple of days, and goods reach the edges and regions of Russia in a week.

Protectors made of aluminum K333.3601.1 from RIVAL are among the best on the market. Their installation guarantees the owner a large number of advantages compared to similar devices of competitors.

The disadvantage of these plates is the high price compared to steel protectors. But this minus more than pays off during operation, your vehicle will not be afraid of the influence of dirt on the technical characteristics of the motor. K333.3601.1 will not lose reliability for a long time and after a few will serve you faithfully.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
car model	Maserati Levante
Year of release	2016-2020
Material	Aluminum
Manufacturer	Rival
Dimensions, mm	920x685x75
Contents of delivery	Protection, packaging, fasteners, instructions.
Weight, kg	12
Producing country	Russia
Color	Grey
Thickness	4 mm
What protects	Crankcase protection, checkpoint, RK

• a 4 mm aluminum plate does not rust, it works much longer than steel;
• the thickness of the tread is 2–3 times greater than that of the iron one, and the weight is lower;
• the product is painted with galvanic enamel, which significantly increases the service life;
• the design has reliable plugs that allow you to instantly change the technical lubricant;
• the method of deep stamping additionally increases the reliability of the product.

• high price.

We hope the review answered the question: “How to choose the right protection for the crankcase and gearbox?” The protector is a simple and cheap part. You can avoid serious problems and breakdowns, our advice is to pay due attention to this issue. If the protector is in poor condition, it is very important to have it repaired or replaced.