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
Preparation:
Start by parking your 4Runner on a level surface and engaging the parking brake.
Gather all your tools and materials.
Remove the Wheels:
Using your socket set, remove the lug nuts and take off the front wheels to access the fender liners easily.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!