HOW TO: Replace Toyota Mudflaps
After a carwash a couple months ago, I noticed a banging sound when I would reach speeds > 40mph. After a quick inspection, I found that my front right mudflap had torn and was about to be gone with the wind. A quick Amazon search of "2007 Toyota Tacoma Mudflaps" revealed that Husky makes a great replacement part that some reviews listed as better than the original. Below is how I replaced my flaps:
First I bought these and waited for them to come in.
While reading the reviews, many people pointed out they needed to buy some replacement Toyota clips, so I bought them ($4), but YOU DON'T NEED THEM (if you have a newer model Toyota Tacoma). Seriously, it only confused me later because I had an unopened package of clips and no need for them.
Also, the Husky flaps came with some paint protector sticker crap. I didn't use it.
STEP #1: Pop off (break) the clips on the existing mudflaps.
Use a flathead screwdriver to pry the clips off of the mudflap frame. Because of the age of your vehicle, these things will probably snap (break) off.
STEP #2: Remove screws (size #10 bolt head) from mudflap frame.
Similarly, the mudflaps are connected via plastic clips (which you just broke off) and screws. Loosen those suckers and the flap should come right off.
KEEP THE SCEWS AND WASHERS
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STEP #3: Remove rats nest from behind your fender.
Somehow, the space behind your mudflap and your fender is home to Narnia, and you have to reach back there and clear it all out. My guess is that everything that flies into the wheel well gets sucked into this little space, so there's a bunch of sticks and leaves and rats and spiders and stuff going on. Behind where the mudflap was, there's a plastic cover that is now loose. Stick your hand behind it. You can't see up there so just cross your fingers and go for it.
STEP 4: Attach useless U-Clip because the instructions say so.
I really don't know about this one, I think it's for support so your flimsy fender attachment doesn't rip, but put this U-clip thing over the fender. You might have to use a flathead screwdriver to spread it apart like so:
STEP 5: Screw 'em!
Using the 3 screws saved from Step #2, screw the new Husky mudflap on (facing the right way of course). Out of the 5 holes available, you should put screws in all of them except the bottom-most (pictured above) and top-most (pictured below). It's best to start with the medial screw (furthest from you).
Also - DON'T OVER-TIGHTEN. You'll put the screw washer through your fender. Make it snug enough that you can't tighten with your fingers, and then tighten a bit more.
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STEP 6: Put other U-clip behind the fender and screw into it.
Confused? Good, because it's confusing. The previous u-clip (step 4) was literally pinching the fender. This u-clip is not, and acts basically like a washer behind the fender. You have to use careful thought and finger agility of a dragon to get it back there. It's best to leave this step for last.
STEP 8: Do the other one dammit.
STEP 9: Wiggle mudflaps. Tighten where needed. Admire mudflaps. Drink beer.
vroom vroom.
Lastly, here's the instructions which could have been drawn better by a blind 4 year old: