feeler FS: Fender Struts, Strengthen that weak area between the wheel well and the bumper!&# Options

[stephen_lee]

Just to be clear this is about the lower section of the fender between the wheel well and the bumper. I have noticed that most 6th gens I've been around the lower front fender/bumper area is pretty "weak" as in easy to move by hand. Driving next to others I also see that part flexing from wind resistance. I'm sure this may cause rattles or squeaks while driving and even a shaky headlight in worst cases as the light support bolts to the fender as well.

SOO I made myself a set of fender struts. A bar that bolts to the fender and to a part of the frame to cut down on that part of the body flexing.

Before I attached said bar, a gentle tap with my foot would cause the whole lower section of my fender and front bumper to move approx 2 inches, and after attaching my fender brace, I have virtually no movement with the same if not more force.

$25/pair shipped to the US would be the price I'd sell these for. I want to get interest in at least 5 sets to make a jig and spend the time welding these up, after I get to the 5, I'll keep the jig and sell these constantly.




This post has been edited by stephen_lee: Aug 15, 2011 - 10:38 AM

[HectortheRican]

Good idea. My buddy's Z31 came stock with those, as I'm sure many other cars do.

[stephen_lee]

everytime i walk by i bump into the fender and it still surprises me how much less movement it has in it.

im sure bumping into stuff and hitting small furry creatures would cause considerably less damage with these installed as it beefs up the whole area.

Interest in buying at $25/pair shipped:

1. DEATH (Two sets)
2.

This post has been edited by stephen_lee: Aug 15, 2011 - 10:36 AM

[mkernz22]

can you still use the splash guards with this? It seems like it would get in the way

[stephen_lee]

It seems like it would be behind the area where the splash guards go. I cant really confirm as none of my 3 have them.

I know FOR SURE it will interfere with the stock airbox thats in the drivers fender, but as most people have some sort of intake, that box should be gone, or can go easily. pass side there is no interference.

[BonzaiCelica]

can you still use the splash guards with this? It seems like it would get in the way

ya what he said!

[jordisonjr]

If not you could just cut a small hole, slide the support through, and seal it to keep out the dirt and grime?

This post has been edited by jordisonjr: Aug 15, 2011 - 3:00 PM

[mkernz22]

If not you could just cut a small hole, slide the support through, and seal it to keep out the dirt and grime?

I'm thinking with the vibration the seal will probably keep breaking loose.

Also, how is it mounted into the fender? because one of the clips that holds the liner in goes right there. I feel like you would have to install this and the liner at the same time which could get a little frustrating.

[stephen_lee]

there may be a liner clip there, but as stated none of my cars have the splash guards. as fas as how its mounted to the fender, the rod has a nut on that end that u thread a bolt into from the underside of the fender. you can replace that clip with this bolt, making an even sturdier setup than before. it may be a bicth to do, but i think it'd be worth it for the added integrity. looking closer at the mounting points of the underplastics, it really seems like it would be completely behind the plastics.

[michlowrider]

Fender braces look great. Ever made or thought about making under hood strut tower braces ?

[stephen_lee]

thought about the strut tower braces, haven't tried it yet.

[BonzaiCelica]

I've seen these alot on chevy and ford trucks. Near the front part of the rear tires. I'd like to see a camry angle of the fender at over 100mph. In which I might get footage of this very soon hehe

[stephen_lee]

thats where i got the idea from. i swear it makes this so much more sturdy up there/

[OOBE]

Put me up! The floppy fenders have always been a concern to me.

Interest in buying at $25/pair shipped:

1. DEATH (Two sets)
2. OOBE

[chacha]

could the bracket be thicker?....will it rust? stainless steel?

[stephen_lee]

yes, yes, im not set up to weld stainless.

thicker would be overkill. addind a second bar to form a triangle type deal would be a better option and much stronger

these would be painted before i ship to cut the rusting

[chacha]

thumbs up..keep me posted when item is finalized

[SupraKid]

ahem...?

[stephen_lee]

not much interest so i set it aside. i can sale em if you want a set ( though they were matched to my car, assuming my car is "straight")