Bash Plate upgrade

Just as well I checked under the vehicle prior to hitting the blacktop after several days in the Little Desert National Park. Sand had packed between the bash plate under my 2005 Hilux and all the stuff it is designed to protect above it, blocking all potential ventilation flow.

Part of the problem is the plate being so deformed from bouncing off rocks in the Victorian High Country, leaving very little gap between it and the sump etc; I probably should have straightened it out months ago, as the plate is only light panel-thickness material.

And therein lies most of the problem, the plate is just not up to the task I am asking of it and requires a serious upgade.

Can anyone share their upgraded their lux bash plate info with me? I had thought around 4 or 5mm mild steel would do the job and I would probably not worry about the large cut-outs for sump oil drainage etc; just remove the plate each time when changing oil.

I assume the slots near the front are critical for air flow although they tend to act as sand scoops. Perhaps drilled holes would do; certainly a lot stronger. I have an estimate of around $300 to have the plate laser cut and bent to shape at a local fabricators, if I supply a drawing and drill the holes.

Maybe someone knows of an off-the-shelf supplier for the latest diesel lux. All comments welcome thanks.

Cheers,
Shep