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.
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.
Multi-column
Join Our Community
For all things NVMOS, check us out on Instagram and Facebook!
Financing Available
Buy now and pay later with Affirm.
Contact Us
Have a question? Just send us an e-mail at support@nvmos.com
