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| Underbody Protection Plates |
| As all Kia die hards will know, the Sportage is one of very few compact true off-road capable four wheel drives. The few other vehicles of its class include the very popular and capable Suzuki Vitara and smaller Mitsubishi Pajero iO. The old Lada Niva's are still out there but rusting away into oblivion as we sit here which is a shame as off-road they were definitely a tough little rig. The ladder box section chassis and low range are testament to the fact that the Sportage is a 'true' off-roader. However there is only limited underbody protection that leaves key components with little or no protection. The factory sump gaurd is sheet metal that will keep small flying objects such as small stones at bay but prone to being torn off by larger rocks or obstructions often encountered off-road. A small Brisbane company, EDS was recommended to me to get measured up for something more substantial in the underbody protection depart- ment. Although EDS supply an impressive range of side steps, bash plates, roll bars, roof racks and other fabricated accessories there wasn't much in the way of 'off the shelf' Sportage goodies available. However the guys agreed to take a look and measure up the Sportage and was pleasantly surprised that they were not only willing to fabricate a steel bash plate but they could extend it to cover from the radiator all the way back to the back of the transmission. A week later the Kia had a two piece solid steel plate bolted to the underside. Not only is the fit absolutely perfect but access holes to the sump, transmission and radiator drains mean that basic maintenance can be carried out without removing the plates. However if required both plates can be removed via easily accessed hi-tensile bolts. |
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| Left : Plate extends from radiator to rear transmission cross-member. Sump is completely enclosed as is the transmission, transfer case and front driveshaft. The catalytic convertor still has plenty of air circulation and the front diff does not protrude below the plate. The whole assembly is two piece and easily removed if needed though access holes to drain plugs minimise the need to. The added bonus is that if the front plate sustains some damage then the whole lot doesn't have to be replaced. Because of the thickness of the steel the whole units a adds significant rigidity to the structure of the Kia. The plate is finished with a chip resistant hammertone finish that is also very corrosion resistant. Below : Front view and more underbody shots. |
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| EDS are situated at Shed 4, Mackie House, South Pine Road, Brendale (Brisbane northside), QLD 4500 (near the Caltex) and can be contacted on 07 3881 2655. They do a wide range of bash plates, sump guards bullbars, sidebars, fuel tanks and just about anything that can be fabricated for a 4x4. As my experience with them has shown nothing is too hard and were only too happy to help. Highly recommended ! |
| EDS Fabrications |