Am I missing a protective cover under my engine compartment?

[backcountryplatinum]

Hi everyone, I have a 22 Platinum FX4 Powerboost. I have the air dam deleted. Sorry if this is a total newb question.

I have been looking at some under vehicle protection options and went below my truck and did notice that I have an open gap under the vehicle into the engine compartment, but there is also a skid plate below (highlighted in yellow). Brand new to Ford and not an overly mechanical guy.

Is there a risk with this open space underneath if I am on gravel roads or even the highway? Was there one of those crappy fabric pads underneath? I have the air dam deleted.

In front of the yellow is all open and exposed, although its pretty tight under there. Is this normal? Is there risk of debris going up there?

I was thinking of getting the Tremor skid plate up there to protect from debris - or is that overkill and I am fine?

Highlighted in yellow is protection - is the engine above that?

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[dzacco]

My fabric cover fell off last week but I can't see the benefit of replacing it. Yes, the engine is above your skid plate. Since you have the FX4 I'm not sure you would gain much by going with the Tremor skid plate. From what I have seen, the aftermarket skid plates would be a big improvement.

 

[backcountryplatinum]

Ok, so low risk of leaving that gap open?

 

[discothan]

The thick fabric cover under my engine area also fell off. I purchased a new one to be installed during my next oil change (since its part of the process anyway). The part cost around $150. According to the Service Manager, he told me "...that its going to get wet and fall off again; I don't know why Ford even bothers with this part. Its crappy engineering. Please don't waste your money."

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