OEM Mudflap Installation

[Twenty]

Today I finally had a chance to install the OEM mudflaps that I'd previously picked up. I figured I'd put up some pictures of the install, like when I swapped to Ti fog light bezels, for anyone interested. These can be used with the supplied instructions.

Part numbers:
Front mudflaps: BM5Z-16A550-C
Rear mudflaps: BM5Z-16A550-B (For four-door only)
Note that you do not have to remove the wheels to install these, though it would be a little easier at times to have them out of the way.

I started by washing the car this morning, and then again cleaning the areas where the mudflaps would sit once I got home.

Front:

With the area clean, I cut out a small section of clear vinyl to act as a barrier between the mudflap and the paint of the fender. The idea behind this was to prevent any dirt that may get between from scratching the paint. Using the mudflap as a guide, I cut it to follow the lines of the fender, and then stuck it on.




Next, there are four clips to be removed from the corner. Three are in the wheel well, one is underneath the stock side skirt. A flat head screwdriver makes quick work of it.



Included in the package is a set of new retainers to hold everything in place.



The mudflap can go in place at this point, and the appropriate clips can be placed in their respective places. One more hole has to be used though, and if it's not already there it'll have to be drilled. Turn the front wheels to full-lock in the opposite direction (So that the leading edge of the wheel is pointed inward) and you'll have room to fit a drill in behind-upside down.



Push the final clip into place, and as with the previous ones, a hammer locks it into place.



Repeat the install on the other side, and the front mudflaps are on!



Next will be the rears.

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[Twenty]

Rear:

Note that I have a four-door Focus. Five-doors and wagons will use different parts and have a slightly different install procedure.

As with the front, I started by cleaning the area and applying some clear vinyl to protect the paint that will be under the mudflap.

This is the hardware included-with a sedan, the parts labeled 'G' are not used.



You will note a small hole in the wheel well liner-the small clips labeled 'H' cover these. One on each side, pressed into place. Also note in the picture below, the screw in the lower left. Each side has two of these, which first have to be removed and then put back in once the mudflap is on. They require a T30-sized Torx bit.



Once the two aforementioned screws are in, a final screw (Included, 'F') attaches to the metal clip already put in place. With the three screws in, the rear mudflap is in place. Repeat for the other side.



At this point, clean up and call it a day. Your Focus has mudflaps now.

[odiez]

It looks nice. I like your idea of applying the clear vinyl.

[sgm12FF]

Thanks for the DIY, very detailed i'll be doing this to my car soon. An effective way of protecting your paint and it looks good too.

[FlankerDFR]

I got mine with the exterior protection package. Yours look great, very nice methodical install! As soon as I talk Capaldi Racing into giving me the aero kit off their SEMA car.............I'm coming over for some professional help with that!

[feta_mgp]

Looks great! I definitely want to do this I just haven't picked them up yet.

[STL 314]

Thanks for the How-To. The instructions that come with them SUCK!

[KaputtEqu1pment]

Nice, i love the instructions. I'm glad to know that i wont' have to give my dealer $80 to install this for me.

[Twenty]

I'm glad you all like the little editorial, thanks all! Like I said I just figured I'd take some pictures along the way, in case anyone would like to see them, or as something to go with the instructions. I always like real pictures and words better than drawings and arrows anyway.

@ KaputtEqu1pment, definitely a quick and easy task for anyone who's ever turned a screw. As long as you have a drill, torx bits, a socket wrench and something flat (ie flathead screwdriver), you're set. I used:

Socket wrench
T-30 and T-20 torx bits
6mm drill bit
Cordless drill
Two flathead screwdrivers, one mini and one larger.

And then you can use the $80 to buy more parts for the Fofo.

[my_crib_too]

Where did you get the clear vinyl from? What did that cost? This is a great idea.

Thanks for posting this.

bruce.....