The JL Shield is an OEM-replacement skid plate that protects the front Center Axle Disconnect (CAD/FAD) housing on the Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT. The factory Center Axle Disconnect actuator hangs off the front differential and is vulnerable on the trail; this heavy-duty 1/4" steel shield doubles the thickness of the stock cover and adds a smooth, extended leading edge so rocks slide underneath instead of catching.
Key Features
- Heavy-duty 1/4" steel construction, roughly twice the thickness of the OEM skid
- Fully welded and hard powder coated for durability and corrosion resistance
- Extended, angled leading edge that ramps over obstacles instead of snagging
- Countersunk flat-head bolts sit flush so nothing hangs down to catch on rocks
- Designed from OEM data files, then CNC laser cut and bent in-house for exact fit
- A true OEM-replacement design for the JL CAD/FAD skid plate
Fitment & Compatibility
Fits the front axle Center Axle Disconnect area on the Jeep Wrangler JL (2018-present) and Gladiator JT (2020-present). It bolts to the factory locations and reuses the upper OEM bolts while adding countersunk flat-heads on the lower holes. Round out your front-axle armor with the JL Front LCA Skids and a JL-JT APEX Front Axle Truss.
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Material | 1/4" steel |
| Construction | Fully welded, CNC laser cut and bent |
| Finish | Hard powder coat |
| Hardware | Countersunk flat-head bolts (lower holes); reuses OEM upper bolts |
| Origin | Made in USA from USA materials |
| Fitment | Jeep JL Wrangler / JT Gladiator front CAD/FAD |
What's in the Box
- JL Shield CAD/FAD skid plate
- Countersunk flat-head mounting bolts
- Installation instructions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CAD/FAD and why protect it?
The Center Axle Disconnect (also called Front Axle Disconnect) is the actuator on the front differential that engages the front axle. It hangs low and is easily damaged on rocks, so a dedicated skid keeps it safe.
Does it fit the Gladiator too?
Yes. It works on both the JL Wrangler (2018-present) and the JT Gladiator (2020-present).
How thick is it compared to the factory skid?
It is 1/4" steel, about twice the thickness of the OEM skid plate.
Is it a hard install?
No. It is a quick bolt-on that reuses the two upper factory bolts and adds the supplied countersunk flat-heads on the lower holes; no welding required.
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