How to install Mud Flaps--rust proof holes?

[stash]

Just picked up up a set of Mopar Mud Flaps for my 06 DAK. I assumed they would existing holes but they do not. I have to drill 3 holes. I HATE drilling holes in something new :-). Anyway I feel the hole(s) will rust prematurely. What do you guys use to rust proof the holes?? and surrounding areas Any advise on undercoating the holes??? THANKS in advance!! Stash

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[superdak05]

whenn i put my flaps on, i just made sure they were nice and snug, because they flex. drilled the holes and use the screws with the silicone ends on them.

[stash]

Thanks for the reply----I see those silicone screws, they were included with the flaps. I never saw that type before. Exactly how do the work? Thanks!!!!!!!

Stash

[cody kid]

The silicon ( actually a paraffin like material if it has a yellow tint) sealant on the screw is forced into the threads being cut by the sheet metal screw and under the screw head to seal the drilled hole, also, acts as a lubricant. If you remove the screw you will lose the sealing affect as it is a one shot use on most occasions. You can always use LPS 3 as a water proofer.
This sealant has been used on screws for years by the car manufacturers for the above reason when attaching the outside molding clips and screws. The manufacturers were trying to prevent water from entering the vehicle. Hope this helps.

[stash]

THANKS for the info!!
good explaination--

Stash

[dcurtis48]

Okay so if I installed mudflaps and the screws that came with them did not have the silicone on them, can I add silicone sealer after the fact? Would it be better to pull them off, lube up the screws and reinstall? I didn't even think about it when I put them on, but now I'm worried about the rust.

[MonkeyWrench4000]

You can be rest assured that somewhere else will rust way before the screw holes ever would. In fact, those mopar flaps will really really slow down the rusting in the rear of the bed where mud would normally get caught up on the backside of the bed sheet metal. My dad and I always throw mud flaps on our trucks and we have never had rust in the holes before. (and you want to talk about leaving your truck dirty?) Sometimes you cant even see where the mudflap begins or ends we kick up so much mud. You will get inner rear bumper rust and surface rust WAY before those holes you drilled will rust. As long as screws stay in the holes, your good. In the future if you ever rip a screw out of its hole, simply replace it with a slightly larger stainless steel screw.

In short- Ive seen alot of trucks worked int he dirt that have flaps drilled into the metal body, like the mid 90's rams, and Ive never seen then rust from it (ive seen rust EVERYWHERE else though)

[graythang]

A few pics. of the Mopar rear flaps installed. Had them painted at a local body shop that the dealer uses.

[IMG]local://upfiles/40810/C0C9BC2BB1994702BC906D2AFEE54435.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]local://upfiles/40810/935D373CB02449CE8C065ACA6BA6EBE0.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]local://upfiles/40810/E7799D7EB6D2449B8982BCDBF65A9A10.jpg[/IMG]

[ezegoin]

Hey guys, quick question about when you installed the mud flaps. Did you use any doublesided tape on the part of the flaps that meets the body or will the 3 screws pull everything tight? When I test fit the parts it seemed to pull out a bit. I'd rather have everything on hand before I start pulling tires off.

BTW, I've been a long time lurker here, lots of great information. I've got a 05 QC 4x4, 4.7L V8, Patriot Blue.

[QCDAKblue]

I had to kind of push on the flaps to get them to fit right and to mark my holes. Mine are snug along the body....