How to Remove Fender Flares From a Chevy
by Don Kress
Chevrolet fender flares are attached to the body of the truck or sport utility vehicle in two ways: They are screwed into the inner fender lip and also are attached to the body of the truck using double-sided foam tape. Double-sided foam tape can be removed using fishing line, but must be cleaned afterward to remove excess adhesive from the body of the vehicle.
Step 1
Loosen and remove the screws which attach the fender flare to the Chevrolet's inner fender lip. Depending on the vehicle, there will be between four and five screws to be removed. Remove the additional two screws at the very bottom of the fender flare which attach the flare to the underside of the truck or sport utility vehicle.
Step 2
Cut a length of mono-filament fishing line approximately two feet long. Slip this between the fender and the fender flare, and with a sawing motion, work the fishing line into the foam double-sided tape that secures the fender flare to the body of the truck. Continue to cut away the foam tape until the fender flare is loose, then set it aside.
Step 3
Moisten the remaining adhesive tape which remains on the truck fender using the adhesive remover, and allow it to soak for a few moments. Use the plastic scraper to gently work away the adhesive until all of the foam has been removed from the fender.
Step 4
Moisten the rag with some adhesive remover, then rub the traces of adhesive that have been left behind after using the scraper. If you intend to reinstall the fender flare, the old adhesive tape will have to be removed from the fender flare, as well.
References
- "Chevrolet Silverado GMC Sierra: 1999 thru 2006 2WD and 4WD"; Ken Freund; 2008
- "Chevrolet S10 and GMC Sonoma Pick-ups, 1994 thru 2001"; Robert Maddox; 2002
- "Auto Body Repair Technology"; James Duffy; 2008
Tips
- The mono-filament line will become very hot while cutting the foam tape, and may break. If it does, simply cut a new length of line and continue where you left off.
Things You'll Need
- Heavy test mono-filament fishing line
- Screwdriver
- Plastic scraper
- Adhesive remover
- Clean rag
Writer Bio
Don Kress began writing professionally in 2006, specializing in automotive technology for various websites. An Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified technician since 2003, he has worked as a painter and currently owns his own automotive service business in Georgia. Kress attended the University of Akron, Ohio, earning an associate degree in business management in 2000.
