Fender trimming 101

[JamminG4Jim]

Can someone explain to me how they trimmed their fenders to allow better tire clearance?

I just put a set of Pro-Comp Xterrains, 33X12.5/15's on my X last night and I'm getting some nasty rubbing on the rear portion of the front wheel openings.

I figure to use a sawzall, but i don't want to leave any sharp edges.

Thanks for any replies.

Jim

 

[Rick]

I used an air grinder with a 3" wheel. Leaves a clean edge and is easily controlled.

 

[Joe93]

Click the link to read about how I went about cutting mine. If you don't understand something let me know.

click here

 

[JamminG4Jim]

Thanks, Guys!
I bought a air driven cut-off tool with a 3in wheel a couple of days ago, along with some extra steel cutting wheels.

I'm still on call for another week so I'll have to wait till next friday before I can mess with it.

I also have a sawzall in the wings in case I need it.

Joe, I also want to thank you for posting the link! It made this upcoming job a lot less formidable!!!!

Jim

 

[Perry]

What I did is take the 3" wheel grinder and made the cut were I wanted the finished fender to come out to. If you look in the picture you can kind of tell how far up we started the cut. Then it went back about 3" I think or to the middle of the two holes on the bottom of the fender.
Once you cut a line in the fender (DON'T CUT IT OFF AT THE TOP) the little sliver that is left is tucked back behind the fender which will leave your original edge for your fender. I might have more pictures on my web site you can look at. I don't remember.

You can email me if you have more questions.

 

[Perry]

This is what it looked like afterwards until I bent up the nerf bars and had to add rock sliders.
As you can see you don't loose the look if you save the edge. I forgot you have to weld the fender back up about 1/2" from the edge and then bondo a little.
Oh yes we did have to cut the little piece of tupperware down also. Dad cut it down, then he used some metal strapping and rivets to hold them together. Looks just like factory if you ask me.

 

[JamminG4Jim]

just a sample pic of the rubbing. This is the worst of it.

Any ideas about what to do about the lower part?

Jim