Fender Trim
Fender trim not only outlines the curves and waves of the vehicle, it also provides durable protection. The fender’s primary function is to block flying debris that tires pick up and throw while driving. The amount of force that the tires throw debris with can damage other cars and even itself when driving down the road. Without fenders and wheel wells objects could be flung with great force, hitting oncoming traffic and causing damage and even accidents. Road tar, rocks, pebbles and other objects can damage the lip of the fender creating unsightly dents. Fender trim protects this from happening.
Fender flares and fender trim are made specifically to fit the model of vehicle they were designed for. They can be found manufactured with materials such as chrome, plastic, carbon fiber, poly urethane and other durable materials. They all protect the fender and are weatherproof. The typical installation that goes on with fender trim is fairly easy. Some models require bolting on the trim while other only need a special adhesive tape for installation. Fender trim is a lot smaller than fender flares and covers less of an area. Both however provide that extra protection against flying debris.
Flexible fender trim is made available to customers as well. Flexible trim can bend and be shaped to the exact dimensions needed to fit the lip of the fender. Once shaped to fit the fender, they can be cut down to the correct length. Other types of fender trim such as ones made of chrome are remanufactured for fit. Chrome fender trim enhances the look of the vehicle by offsetting other existing chrome parts such as the bumper or the mirror cover. They also enhance the look of chrome wheels and polished aluminum wheels. Fender trim may need to be installed in sections but in most cases they come in one piece.
Before installing fender trim, make sure that all dirt and debris is cleaned away from the lip of the fender. Also make sure that any existing road tar that may be caked on is removed as well. If this is neglected, fender trim that utilizes adhesive glue or tape for installation will not have a clean surface to stick too. Primer colored fender trim has been prepared to match the paint of the vehicle. Before installing fender trim which needs to be painted, make sure to match the color and have the fender trim painted and set out to dry. Some vehicles may have mud flaps that will need to be removed if they are in the way of installation.
The adhesive bond that is on the back side of the fender trim is covered by a tape to preserve the glue. Carefully remove it before installing the fender trim. Most fender trim uses adhesive tape and small screws. Bolts are usually associated with fender flares and not fender trim. After pressing the fender trim firmly against the fender, use clamps to hold the trim in place. Then gently fasten the screws that came with the fender trim until all are installed. The clamps can then be removed and the next 3 fenders will be a rinse and repeat process.
Fender trim adds to the overall look of the vehicle and enhances certain curves and lines that would otherwise be unnoticeable. They provide style and protection against flying debris. Many fender trim products can be found online at low prices. They are light weight and cost very little to ship. Just about all makes and models of vehicles have aftermarket fender trim on a number of websites that sell them. They are an inexpensive way to start customizing your vehicle.
