My attempt to run the jeep stock with 33x12.50's was going fine until I actually started using it offroad. Lately I have been having to re-attach the rear fender flares because (this is what I think is happening) when the rear suspension compresses the tires are pushing the flares up and off the fender. This can only go on for so long and I'm sure one of them will become damaged, possibly along with the sheetmetal. I have seen some of the tube fenders and was just wondering about my options here? I would really like to keep the suspension stock if possible, but obviously want to also keep the 33 inch tires and have coverage to be legal on the road here in Maine. Any suggestions?
Will the tube fenders give enough extra clearance so the rubbing problem is eliminated?
Has anyone done anything to trim or relocate their existing flares with success?
Fender cutout flares?
Thanks for the ideas in advance.

2007 Wrangler X
305/70/17 BFG AT's, ProComp Rims

 

Ever think about leaving off your rear inner fender liners?

 

The stockers unattach by lifting up then out so on full flex with upwards rub it's just popping them off sounds like. RiverRaiders and mentioned makes a nice set, little too wide for my taste but they are stout, Xenon Narrows are nice and absolutely hold in place because they are bolted not clipped in like the stockers, in fact same bolt holes are used that River Raider uses. I went with affordability at the moment on my flares but may try the steel flares down the road. Flatties will ABSOLUTELY give you at least 2" more clearance in the back full flex.

 

I have wider than stock Xenons.. 33x12.5 BFG's, no rubbing at full flex, and no lift..





testing out flexxx




front clearance at full flex



rear clearance at full flex



some others














hope that answers your question.

 

racer it looks lifted 4"

 

lol thanks, I wish it was.. I would stop high-centering.. Im sure a small 2.5" lift and some 35's or greater and gears will be in order once these tires wear out and I have some $ banked for modding it.

 

how much backspacing do your pro comps have?

 

I think my backspacing is at 4-5 inches. The factory flares almost provide adequate coverage, but not enough room for articulation. I like the tube fenders, but can't really see spending a grand on fender flares. Faced with that decision I might just have to do a 2.5 or 4 inch lift. I can't run without them on the rear as that wouldn't be legal.

I would like tho thank everyone that replied, you're a great grooup.

 

What about a 1 inch body lift , wouldn't that give you the extra clearance at the cheepest price??

 

I guess you're right, the BB might be the answer, but if I were going to go to the (albeit minimal) trouble to instal on why not just go with 2.5?

Back to the original question, has anyone done a cost comparison between the various tube fenders and the amount of extra wheelwell room they afford? It sounds like my ideal solution will be a Xenon or RR type tube fender which provides the coverage I need along with the extra room to flex with the 33's.

Thanks again for the replies thus far.