DuraFlap
A perfect fit for a lifted Chevy.
Words by Steve Fennell
Style is always important when it comes to tricking out the exterior of your tow vehicle or RV with aftermarket components. While many cool choices are available, mud flaps aren't always at the top of the list. However, these often-forgotten-about-accessories are a key means of maintaining your rig's condition, with good looks to match.
Rocks, debris, gravel, ice, and winter salt can take a toll on the underside of your truck, as well as the exterior of the RV that's being towed behind it. Short of getting a new exterior paint job, replacement bumpers, or even new finishing for your trailer, mud flaps are a simple, affordable solution for optimal protection from damaging road debris.
"These are ideal for any motorhome or truck as they offer a safeguard against all types of rocks and debris," says Nina Rose, co-owner of DuraFlap, a manufacturer of quality-set custom and universal mud flaps for the truck and RV markets. "A lot of people don't realize today's tires for trucks have more aggressive tread patterns, which can potentially kick-up more damaging debris. So, after a few seasons, people start to realize that their bumper, rear panels or underside components are becoming rusted or deteriorating. Mud flaps greatly prevent this."
Like many other automotive aftermarket products that are designed to prevent damage, the better the quality, construction, and design, than the better the protection will be. For instance, the Drill-Less and Universal lines of mud flaps from DuraFlap are unique in their own right. They are designed with a 1 cm (.38 in) polyethylene/rubber blend and have anti-sail and anti-spray capabilities. This means the design not only prevents wind from raising the mud flap, but withstands common tearing, peeling, fading, or breaking from the elements.
Some other benefits include:
- A “Rain Groove” backing that runs off snow, rain or mud
- Stainless/anodized hardware
- Optional 304 mirror-finished stainless steel polished weights with a framed and finished profile
- Full-size design to fully protect your truck and trailer
- Custom sizes and shapes are available for RVs and modified trucks
When it comes to installation and fit, the Drill-Less Series is a popular choice for tow vehicles. Direct fits are available for most Ford, Dodge and GM trucks or SUVs, and they can also fit duallys and Hummers. If a direct fit isn't possible – that’s no problem. Custom fitting is DuraFlap's specialty, as are custom graphics or artwork to give your rig that added touch.
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DuraFlap
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DuraFlap
One of the company’s custom mud flaps on a Newmar Class A Ventana.
Installation Made Easy
To install on a tow vehicle, no lifting is required and the mud flaps are attached by inserting the company's stainless steel hardware into the existing pre-drilled holes of the fender well. The mud flap is then further secured with DuraFlap's in-house-manufactured mounting brackets. For installation on motorhomes, however, Rose explains that when pre-existing holes are not available, drilling is required and the mud flaps are set in place with closed eye-bolts and reinforced with the mounting brackets.
The company also offers its Universal Mud Flaps in long and extra-long sizes for both the front and rear wheel wells of trucks and motorhomes. Of course, custom fits are available for various sizes of RVs or tow vehicles that are lifted, have modified flares or equipped with over-size tires.
"All of our mud flaps come with stainless/anodized hardware and our custom brackets, as a lot of trucks or motorhomes don't have enough factory holes for a solid fit," says Rose. "The custom brackets are essential to secure the flaps and this eliminates the need to drill any holes and provides a reliable fit to withstand many of the rigours of road travel."
All mud flaps for tow vehicles come with a five-year warranty while its series of RV Mud Flaps are warrantied against manufacturer defects. For all the details and options for your RV or tow vehicle visit duraflap.com
DuraFlap
Many sizes are available for dually’s or more customized tow vehicles.
Highlights of the RV Mud Flaps
What's in an RV mud flap? Well, quite a lot. Some of the top benefits of DuraFlaps custom RV Mud Flaps include:
- Custom designs made available for Class A, Class C, and Class B motorhomes
- Curved corners (rather than straight) to reduce tearing while maneuvering sharp corners
- Adjustable hanging points of any spread to fit any coach
- Heavy-gauge stainless steel faceplates
- Galvanized backing plate
- Custom artwork and graphics are available
- Powder-coated hanging angle iron bar for a strong and secure install
- DuraFlap also has several OEM mud flaps available for those who want matching, factory fit