Was wondering what folks think?? I have color matched fenders and am reluctant due to chipping paint. Also can’t decide on a shape or what mods need to happen underneath to make it all come together I.e. function and looks. Any advice is appreciated!!! Also recommendations on after market. I do like MCE but I know there are lots out there. So tell me what you all have or have done and why you like it?? Thanks a bunch in advance!!!
That is the question.
I never wanted to cut my fenders because I have seen so many that have been cut too much and I don't personally like that look. I like the stock look. However when I put 37's on, modifications were necessary.
I had chosen wheels and tires to minimize the amount of stick out of the tires. 4.5" backspace, 12.5" wide tires instead of 13.5". For the most part at full stuff the tire would still fit inside the fender well. Most of the rubbing was on the rear, so I started there.
Pinch seams were removed first, then the inner fender, then some trimming of the bumper. After that there was still a bit of rubbing, but only where the tire touched the inside lip of the fender. So I decided to do as little cutting as possible. At the same time, I hated that the fenders are only attached with a few plastic clips that were very loose allowing the fender to move. I cut just the inside edge of the fender and maybe just 1/4" up the side. I used fine blade in the jigsaw and then did a bit of sanding to cleanup the edge. Stainless steel screws now hold the fenders on tight with no movement and the fender wells are painted with some black poly undercoat. The front doesn't need any trim so far.
If you aren't looking for it specifically, you would never know that they were cut.
Granted, my fenders are not painted so it's a little different. But with care and a bit of experimentation you may not have any problem with chipping. My recommendation is to start with the free modification and if you don't like the results, then get new fenders with more clearance.
