I used 1/4" for my gas tank skid, and it holds the weight of the vehicle just fine. I'm sure that's mostly due to Don's design! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> On my fronts, I "laminated" pieces of 1/4" plate to the insides of the stock skids. (I have both skids) I heated and bent the pieces and welded them in. I flooded everything with a wet coat of thinned out metal primer to prevent rust. By using the factory creases and bends in the factory skids, I retain that strength, plus add impact protection. I can lift the truck from anywhere on any skid. I now have to fab a skid for the T-case when I get the A/T in.