So this is kind of a question for anyone that has gone aftermarket, retained the stock skid, and/or added the Thunderhawk Skid-Max.

Do stock skid plates cover significantly less than their aftermarket counter parts?
Does the addition of the Thunderhawk Skid-Max negate the need for an aftermarket chassis skid? E.g. are the factory skid plates strong enough when supported by the Skid-Max? I understand the a-arms are a different discussion.

As I understand it UMHW is the way to go as opposed to a full aluminum skid. I’m all for doing things "right" but I’d be hard pressed to drop $5-600 if the Thunderhawk Skid-Max does a good job of negating the need for a full aftermarket skid.

Thanks for your help guys,
Shawn