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Do Mudguards require drilling into painted chassis?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Accessories and Modifications' started by srivenkat, Nov 1, 2012.

  1. srivenkat

    srivenkat Active Member

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    Folks,

    I have been thinking about installing mudguards on my Prius but am concerned that they might require drilling into the painted chassis portions which I want to avoid since that could cause the drilled portions to start to rust.

    Also I am concerned that salt could get into any crevices in between the guard and the back side of it causing those portions to rust over time. Are these unfounded? I hope they are, but would appreciate confirmation and encouragement that on balance the mudguards would protect the car.

    Thanks.
     
  2. Mike500

    Mike500 Senior Member

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    No, no "metal" part needs to be drilled. Some plastic, like the rear bumber rail at the inside back edge of the wheel weld needs to be drilled.
     
  3. JMG

    JMG Junior Member

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    I wanted to also confirm this...you'll drill into the lip of your bumper cap with a self-tapping screw but other than that, no body work.
     
  4. Mike500

    Mike500 Senior Member

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    Correct! You may need to drill plastic rocker cover, too. But, NEVER in the metal

    Since some of the screws and clips are "blackened" or phosphated steel, I coated them will "rustproofing." LPS3 can be used for the same thing.

    I just hate rust on a car.