Under Tailgate Plate - Aluminum, for Jeep Wrangler TJ/LJ 1997-2006
The Artec Under Tailgate Plate armors one of the most-abused panels on a Jeep Wrangler TJ or LJ: the exposed sheet metal directly below the tailgate. That strip takes rock spray off the rear tires and gets crunched whenever the back end drags off a ledge, and once it is dented it stays ugly. Cut from 3/16" aluminum and contoured to the TJ body, this plate bolts over the panel to take those hits instead — strong, light, corrosion-free, and low-profile enough that it protects without changing the look of the Jeep.
Features
- 3/16" aluminum — strong, light, and immune to rust
- Covers the vulnerable body panel below the tailgate
- Contoured to match TJ body lines for a factory-clean look
- Bolt-on installation, no welding — drill the recommended holes and fasten
- Low-profile design keeps tailgate operation unchanged
- Made in the USA
Fits the Jeep Wrangler TJ (1997-2006) and LJ Unlimited, and installation is a straightforward drill-and-bolt job with the supplied hardware. It pairs naturally with the TJ Standard Rear Corner Armor for full coverage across the back of the tub — find the rest in tailgate plates and armor.
Complete your Jeep Wrangler build
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More for your Jeep Wrangler
Picked from the 1741 parts we carry for the Jeep Wrangler, matched to 1997–2006 model years. Check the years and trim in each title — or call us and we’ll confirm fit.
Specifications
Under Tailgate Plate FAQs
What area of the Jeep does this plate protect?
The exposed body panel just below the tailgate opening — the strip that catches rock spray off the rear tires and takes the hit when the back of the Jeep drags over a ledge or obstacle. The plate bolts over that panel so the 3/16" aluminum absorbs the abuse instead of the tub.
Is welding required to install it?
No. This is a bolt-on part: you drill the recommended mounting holes, then fasten the plate with the included hardware using basic hand tools. Tailgate operation is unaffected by the low-profile design.
Why aluminum instead of steel here?
The panel below the tailgate needs impact and abrasion protection, not structural strength, so 3/16" aluminum is ideal — it resists dents and scrapes, adds minimal weight to the rear of the vehicle, and will never rust streaks down your paint. It fits the Wrangler TJ and LJ Unlimited, 1997-2006.
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