Now that the newest generation of the Tacoma has been around for 3 years, owners are starting to put in the trail miles. But as a new owner, you might be in for a surprise, with the potential for frustrating repairs.
Where previous generations used leaf-sprung rear ends, the new 4th Gen Tacoma uses a coil-sprung multi-link rear suspension, like what you’ll see on the 4Runner. This also includes the rear lower links which stretch from the frame down to the rear axle. These links and their mounts hang pretty low. In fact, they are among the lowest points on the frame. And guess what? That means they’re way more likely to get dragged over obstacles.
Especially true when crawling over rocks, the front mount for the rear lower links (DV8 calls them trailing arms), is bound to get hit. And when it does, you’ll start to see it folding in on itself. The bottom the link that attaches to the frame is also exposed and easy to damage. Fortunately, DV8 has developed a solution to this problem with their new Trailing Arm Skids, which may just save your suspension, your frustration, and your wallet while on the trails. Today, we’re going to be talking about just how important these are and why it’s probably the most undervalued skid.
Table Of Contents
Overview
DV8 is no stranger to making armor for 4th Gen Tacomas, providing a wide range of protection for these trucks. This specific piece of protection, however, is priced well given the amount of coverage it provides.
Last year, I attempted to clear an obstacle on an off-roading trip when my trailing arm caught on a rock. My frame bracket and trailing arm were severely damaged. After that trip, I purchased the DV8 skid plates and installed them. Following the installation, I attempted another steep-angle climb to test the new protection provided by the skid plates. After riding the trails for days, my frame and trailing arms showed no evidence of damage, and I was able to complete those climbs without fear of my trailing arms being crushed.
Build Quality & Design
Let’s talk quality: DV8 meets the mark. These skid plates are functional and look good, too. As for the material, they are made from 5mm durable steel for optimal protection of the trailing arms and frame brackets. Additionally, the design offers a clean look to what was once a vulnerable and unprotected area underneath. Most importantly, this product leaves you feeling at ease knowing your suspension is safeguarded.
The finish on these skids is a special micro-textured black powder coat that protects against one common enemy: rust. Whether you’re river crossing or rock climbing, DV8’s powder coat shields against rust better than paint ever could. A technique known for its durability, this powder coating is scratch-, chip-, and fade-resistant, ultimately leading buyers to be more satisfied with this finish than with an average painted product.
Feature/Spec Summary
- made for 2024+ (4G) Tacoma
- protection from rocks, roots, etc.
- 5mm thick steel construction
- durable black powder coat to resist corrosion
- angled design that helps slide over obstacles
- simple, bolt-on install
- 1 year warranty
Installation Overview
The off-road community often jokes about the excitement of getting a new product, only to realize there’s a several-hour install ahead. Thankfully, DV8 has made this one pretty simple and provided a dialed install guide. No hassle. This install took me 30-45 minutes and only required a few basic tools.
Tools Required
- Ratchet strap
- 18mm and 19mm sockets (and their corresponding wrenches)
- A mallet or hammer to remove the arm from the frame
The instructions for the bracket were very clear and easy to follow. The ratchet strap keeps the axle from shifting, and while this may sound scary, it is very easy to control. Simply take the ratchet strap, connect one end to the axle, and the other to the rear of the truck. I used the hitch to prevent movement.
Next, remove the 19mm factory bolt and use a mallet to carefully pop the trailing arm out of the bracket. Afterward, install your DV8 skid plate. Once in position, reinstall the factory bolt and secure the newly provided M12 bolts (one for each side). The final step is to torque the bolts to 103 ft-lbs. I found this installation to be a quick, simple one-person job.
Off-Road Testing Review
Time to talk about what really matters: true trail experience. I have completed multiple trails in both Virginia and West Virginia, and I can safely say that without the skid plates, my truck would be in the shop. The DV8 skid plates have protected the underside of my truck more times than I can count. With this product, I now take on obstacles with peace of mind, knowing I have stalwart protection for the underside on a crucial suspension mount.
The skids are most useful in the rocks. Any bigger boulder is a potential contact point as you crawl over it. The bigger the rock, the higher the potential for damage. The point is, if you take your truck on anything besides a forest service road, it’s only a matter of time before you make contact. Everyone knows that choosing the right line is important, but when you have no other choice but to power through, these are your saving grace. If you are an avid off-roader who enjoys rock crawling or tackling deep ruts on trails, the DV8 trailing arm skid plates are absolutely essential.
It’s worth noting that these are probably the most compatible set on the market. With other options, you can run into interfere with sliders that mount right above the link mount. Not all sliders go all the way back here, but many do. The skid also extends to cover the bottom of the link that attaches to the frame, preventing damage and wear on the joint without interfering with its motion.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Solid steel construction
- Direct protection of vulnerable mounts
- Easy bolt-on installation
- Clean OEM look
- Excellent price-to-protection ratio
Cons
- TRD Pro trim level fitment not verified
Final Thoughts
In the end, DV8’s Trailing Arm Skids prove to be more than just another aftermarket accessory, they’re a smart investment for any 4th Gen owner who subjects their truck to off-road abuse. With the shift to a coil-sprung multi-link rear suspension comes new vulnerabilities, and DV8 has addressed them with a well-designed, durable, and easy-to-install solution.
From real-world trail abuse to everyday peace of mind, these skid plates deliver exactly what they promise: protection where it matters most. If you’re serious about off-roading and want to avoid costly suspension damage down the line, these Trailing Arm Skids are a must-have upgrade that protects both your truck and your bank account.
