Aluminium Fuel Tank Bash Plate — Ford Ranger PX1/PX2/PX3 / Mazda BT-50
Fuel Tank Protection
Weight: 12.8 kg
When you're traversing the seldom-travelled Madigan Line, where the Big Red dune and endless gibber plains test your vehicle's protection to the core, your Ford Ranger or Mazda BT-50's fuel tank is the difference between completing your expedition and calling for rescue. Sitting exposed beneath the rear chassis, the fuel tank collects impacts from rocks launched by the front wheels, rut edges that scrape along the underside, and embedded stones on corrugated tracks. The RIVAL 4x4 Fuel Tank Bash Plate delivers precision-engineered protection for your fuel tank — a puncture here doesn't just mean an expensive repair, it means you're stranded. Crafted from deep-stamped 6mm high-strength aluminium alloy, this 12.8 kg plate is essential equipment for any Ranger or BT-50 that ventures beyond the bitumen.
- ✓ High-Strength 6mm Aluminium Alloy Construction
- ✓ Precision Fit — Vehicle-Specific Design for Ranger PX/BT-50
- ✓ Complete Fuel Tank Shielding
- ✓ Corrosion-Resistant Powder Coat Finish
- ✓ Ventilated Design for Airflow & Debris Drainage
- ✓ Bolt-On Installation — No Drilling Required
Key Features
- Material: 6mm Deep-Stamped High-Strength Aluminium Alloy (5251 grade)
- Thickness: 6mm
- Weight: 12.8 kg
- Finish: Textured Matte Black Polymer Powder Coat
- Mounting: Direct bolt-on to factory mounting points — no drilling or chassis modification required
- Fitment: Ford Ranger PX1/PX2/PX3 (2012–2022) / Mazda BT-50
Why Choose Aluminium Over Steel?
- Weight Savings: Aluminium is approximately 40% lighter than steel, preserving payload capacity on your Ranger or BT-50 for tools, gear, and touring loads.
- Corrosion Resistance: Unlike steel, aluminium naturally forms a protective oxide layer. Combined with powder coating, your bash plate won't rust — even after years of harsh Australian conditions.
- Energy Absorption: Aluminium's natural flex absorbs and distributes impact energy across the plate, cushioning the fuel tank from sharp rock strikes.
- Modern Vehicle Design: The Ranger and BT-50's payload ratings are competitive — aluminium protection maximises security while minimising weight impact on your tray capacity.
What's Included
- ✓ 1x RIVAL Fuel Tank Bash Plate for Ranger PX / BT-50
- ✓ Complete Mounting Hardware & Fitting Kit
- ✓ High-Tensile Bolts & Fasteners
- ✓ Installation Instructions
Installation
- Difficulty: Easy — suitable for home mechanics with basic tools
- Requirements: Standard socket set, jack & stands or vehicle hoist
- Bolt-On Design: Mounts directly to factory mounting points with no drilling, cutting, or permanent modification. Fully reversible installation.
Built for Australian Conditions
The Ford Ranger PX series is one of the most modified and most adventured vehicles in Australia. Whether yours is a Wildtrak loaded for Cape York, a tradie's XL that's seen every construction site in the state, or a BT-50 that quietly does everything the Ranger does — the fuel tank faces the same Australian terrain. And Australian terrain is unforgiving.
RIVAL bash plates are engineered for this reality. Deep-stamped construction creates stiffening ribs for up to two times the impact resistance of flat plates. Powder coat resists UV, salt, and abrasive red dust.
Perfect For
- Long-distance outback touring — Cape York, Gibb River Road, Simpson Desert
- Coastal driving where salt air accelerates corrosion on exposed components
- Tradies and fleet vehicles operating on construction sites, farms, and mining roads
- Serious off-road adventures including rock crawling, river crossings, and rutted tracks
- Daily driving with peace of mind knowing your fuel tank is protected from road debris
Compatibility
Vehicle: Ford Ranger PX1/PX2/PX3 (2012–2022) / Mazda BT-50
Engine Options: 2.2L TDCi, 3.2L TDCi 5-Cylinder Turbo Diesel, 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel (PX3)
Variants: All cab configurations and trim levels. Verify fitment with your vehicle's build date and chassis number if unsure.