I was recently asked to build a set of free-floating fenders for an extremely unique vehicle. The request was for “lightweight, aluminum fenders for a Subaru powered rear engine race car to be considered street legal.” Challenge accepted. Since there were budget and timing considerations I decided to simplify the design from past fenders which I had created for open-wheeled roadsters.
See the Floating Fender Deuce
I’m always taking note of parts or product to simplify or streamline a project. These fenders were build from a set of .090″ aluminum fender blanks originally designed for semi-trucks. The fenders were sectioned lengthwise and narrowed by 12″ for the front and 11″ for the rear. They were then each cut laterally to create two fenders from each of the monstrous blanks. The parts were then shrunk to the proper radius and fit to sit a little over 1″ above the tire.
The brackets were made from 1/4″ cold rolled steel and bolt directly to the front hub and the rear axle. For additional rigidity, .090″ Aluminum braces were bonded to the inside of the fender, creating a ultra-light and tough fender which should pass DOT regulations in most states.
Check out the build process:
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- Enormous semi-truck fender black
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- Sectioned fender to create proper width
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- Both fenders after sectioning and welding smooth
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- A fender with the proper radius (left rear) compared to the original radius
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- A fender with the proper radius (left rear) compared to the original radius
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- Fender Brackets- 2 per wheel – 1/4″ cold rolled steel
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If you have questions, ideas or would like a quote for building or chopping your own car please feel free to email me any time with the contact form on the sidebar. I will gladly quote full builds or complex one-off parts to assist you in your build. I’m here to help so lets go!
