4Runner Fender Liner Mod: Tips for Larger Tires

Introduction

If you’re a fellow 4Runner owner and looking to upgrade to larger tires, you might have come across the common issue of tire rubbing, especially when hitting bumps or turning sharply. A great way to address this is by modifying your fender liners. This guide will walk you through the steps you can take to perform a simple yet effective fender liner mod.

What You’ll Need

  • Tools:
    • Socket set
    • Screwdriver
    • Trim removal tool
  • Materials:
    • Rivets or zip ties
    • Optional: heat gun (for plastic modifications)

Steps to Modify Your Fender Liners

  1. Preparation:

    • Start by parking your 4Runner on a level surface and engaging the parking brake.
    • Gather all your tools and materials.
  2. Remove the Wheels:

    • Using your socket set, remove the lug nuts and take off the front wheels to access the fender liners easily.
  3. Inspect the Fender Liners:

    • Look for any areas in the fender liner that rub against the tires.
    • If you have a stock fender liner, consider some trimming to create more space if necessary.
  4. Modify the Fender Liners:

    • If you need to make adjustments, use a heat gun to slightly warm the plastic, making it easier to mold or trim.
    • For excess material, cut away the areas that no longer serve a purpose. Ensure you don’t cut too much—just enough to alleviate rubbing.
  5. Reattach the Liners:

    • Use rivets or zip ties to securely fasten the modified fender liner in place. Ensure it’s tight and won’t move around during driving.
  6. Reinstall Wheels:

    • Put the wheels back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower your 4Runner and then fully tighten the lug nuts while the vehicle is on the ground.

Final Thoughts

Doing a fender liner modification can greatly improve your off-roading experience and tire performance. Make sure to test drive and check for any rubbing after the install.

Feel free to share any tips or your experiences with fender liner mods below! Let’s help each other out here.

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Could anyone please share the materials needed for modifying the fender liner? I’m thinking about doing this mod soon.

You’ll want to get some high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for the fender liners. It’s durable and flexible! Also, grab some stainless steel fasteners to resist rusting.

Great tips, Richard! I’d also recommend a good quality sealant to ensure a tight fit. You don’t want any water getting in there.

Agreed! I used silicone sealant on mine, and it works wonders in keeping everything dry.

What tools do I need for the installation? Just basic screwdrivers or something more advanced?

You’ll need a mix of basic tools! A drill, some screwdrivers, and maybe a utility knife for cutting the fender liner. Also, pliers come in handy for those stubborn fasteners!

I can’t stress enough that a deburring tool is super useful. It makes the edges smooth after you cut the liner!

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Absolutely! Nobody likes jagged edges—they can be dangerous! Not to mention, it looks better too.

Is there a specific brand of fasteners that everyone recommends? I want to avoid weak links in my setup.

Also, don’t forget to gather some zip ties! They can help with securing loose ends in your fender liner mod.

Haha, yes! I always have a stash of zip ties. You never know when they’ll come in handy!

What if I get stuck during the installation? Is there a way to troubleshoot common problems?

You can always reach out to the community. We’re here to help! Additionally, a good YouTube guide can be a lifesaver.

I love the community support here! It makes tackling these projects less daunting.

I’m planning to tackle this mod next weekend! Can someone provide a detailed list of tools needed for the fender liner install?

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You’ll need basic tools like screwdrivers, a socket set, and some trim removal tools. Don’t forget to grab some zip ties for securing things later on!

Great advice, rodrigueznathan! Also, have you guys found that heat guns help with stubborn clips during removal?

Absolutely! Applying heat can soften the plastic and make those clips pop out a lot easier without cracking them.

I am a bit nervous about this mod. Are there any pitfalls that we should definitely avoid?

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