How to Keep Your Dually Fenders Safe with Bedliner from Rock Chips?

Last Updated on
Photo of author
Written By Waylon Joe

Hey, It’s Waylon “Joe” Kite here. I am a West Virginia native and a die-hard pickup truck fan. My story with trucks started with my dad’s 1989 Ford F-150, and it's still going on. I'll share all my trucking experiences (both great and gross ones) with you. I have a garage full of tools to fix and renovate trucks and a freezer full of ales. Do you want to join me?

There’s no doubt everyone wants their beast to look stunning. In reality, the more trip you take, it’s more the chance of scratching and fading. What an irony; your garage can’t be the museum of any dappled vehicle.

While your choice is a dually, it has already served. Proofs? There is, and that’s what you want to get rid of.

The devil rock chips!

That’s why the fenders are there. But they need safety too.

It’s relieving that fixing the spots on the fenders is mostly a home remedy. Still, don’t you think it’s enough to be in between the repair and a little worry about more significant damage?

Want me to share an idea? Let’s discuss how to protect dually fenders with bedliner from rock chips.

Set a bedliner guard on your dually fenders in 4 steps

Keep reading how to tackle rock chips attack on your fenders with a bedliner.

Tools Needed

  • Unbolting tools like wrenches
  • 320 or 600 grit sandpaper
  • 1500 grit scuff pad
  • Tack cloth
  • Raptor mixing (raptor liner and hardener)

Now, let’s get into the main business.

Step 1: Detach the Fenders

Unscrew and separate the fenders from your truck. Anyone can do that, but it’s not as easy as it seems. 

You’ll find wires between the fenders and the main body that supply power to the fenders’ lights. Disconnect them before going for unscrewing.

There are several bolts and nuts you’ll be tired of counting while removing the fenders. Some are on the opposite side of the cargo bed panel, some are under the fenders, and the rest are near the wheels. You’ll find out where else. Be careful while taking them out.

It would take a longer time than you thought. So, have a little patience and don’t hurry.

Step 2: Wash to Prepare for Bedliner

Wash the fenders with water. Using some shampoo will do better. Don’t forget the truck’s portion, where you’ll set the fenders again. 

Now, your fenders need sanding. Take sandpaper and make the surface smooth. For this job, 320 or 600-grit sandpapers will be perfect. Don’t forget the fender’s backside. 

Remember, dual action sander helps to do the task efficiently. But also, you’ll have to do hand sanding of some inner fender areas where the device won’t work correctly. We recommend using a 1500-grit scuff pad for this.

Take any soft or tack cloth and wipe on the surfaces and corners. Make sure there’s no dust remaining.

Step 3: Prepare the bedliner

Now, it’s time to mix the raptor liner with the hardener. It’s easy. Pour the hardener in the raptor liner bottle up to the level of the bottle’s outer liner. Shake them, and the mixture is ready to apply. 

You can paint with roller paint at the fender’s outer parts. But, somehow, you’ll require spraying them on the fenders inside. So, it will be wise to begin with, the compressor and spray machine. Don’t compromise your safety. Wear a safety mask and take protection for the eyes.

Step 4: Spay Bedliner

Now, finally, start spraying. Be careful and don’t miss any portion, or it’ll cause a split easily when your truck is on the road.

Wait for half an hour and then apply the second coating. When the paint is dried up, your fenders are safer. It’s now protected! But remember! You’re going to deal with a lot of metal pieces again.

Take the fenders and set them again over your wheels. Make sure you have the same count of the bolts and that all are appropriately set.

Note That

  • If the fenders have cracks or rust, repair them before applying the bedliner. The same applies to the area of the vehicle where the fenders are set. It’s normal to find stains there.
  • The thicker the bedliner layer is applied, the more the surface is safe. We mentioned applying two layers which is the minimum requirement. It can be more if you think it necessary because roads are not the same everywhere. Moreover, it also depends on your usage.
  • Separating and reinstalling the fenders can be complicated, even risky. It’s always best to take the help of someone who keeps a clear idea. 

FAQ

Can I apply a bedliner on my dually fenders alone?

Yes, you can. But, it’ll take a little time to make you bored or exhausted. So, we recommend taking help from one of your friends. You can save time, and the work will be much easier and safer.

Should I apply the bedliner on the dually fenders without separating them from the truck?

It would help if you took off the fenders to apply the bedliner. Otherwise, the bedliner won’t last for the duration it’s supposed to. You have to ensure that the fenders’ outer and inner surfaces are cleaned and undamaged or repaired before applying the bedliner.

What are the benefits of a bedliner on the dually fenders?

Being the most prone to scratches and dents, dually fenders need safety from the hit by rock chips and even sometimes animal claws. Bedliner gives them protection and holds your truck’s normal and bold looks for a longer time than without any guard. The replacement charge of fenders is quite more than a bedliner coating. So, the money is also saved.

Last Words

Wheels are the most active sections after the engine. Naturally, their nearest parts pay the price, unlike the rest of the vehicle.

Thus, there’s an inevitable circumstance. To stop that from interrupting your peace of mind, take the necessary options now. We hope the discussion on ‘how to protect dually fenders with bedliner from rock chips’ helps.

Save Upto 15% on Your Tonneau Cover Order!

As we know in this era tonneau cover is a must-have tool for every truck owner, that's why we came up with up to 15% discount for our readers on Amazon. If you click on the button below, we will take you to their exclusive discount page!