2002 Tundra Fender replacement

I chased down why my radio was not receiving and found that the antenna cable was rusted through. However when I removed the inner linings to access the antenna mount in the fender I found that the flares on the wheel wells collected all sorts of dirt that had rusted the bottom of the wheel wells right out. Local body shop suggested that the fenders will have to be replaced as the rust is not repairable. I am assuming that the left side is similar.
Are the fenders a bolt off/bolt on process? I am getting a parts list and see if I can order the parts. Might take it to another body shop for an estimate.

 

I thought they were clips and double stick tape. Obviously I don’t know and am glad I didn’t buy my Tundra with them. Best of luck and yeah, the rust should be repairable; it’s just more cost effective to get used or new ones.

 

Thanks Jack...That is what I thought. Not going to change the antenna until the fender issue is resolved. Probably could use a new paint job as well...but...

 

That paint will buff out shiny again too with a good DA/rotary buffer and some Meguair's Ultimate Polish ... Should be single stage paint.

 

I think unless it’s worse than it looks from here, I would just treat the rust to stop it and put the flare back on.

 

What would you treat the rust with? I could nibble or cut the rusty part way making sure what is left is covered by the flare and treat the edge, and replace the flare. Would that be an option?

 

File off any burrs, wire brush it and treat with a rust encapsulator paint like POR-15.

 

I’d knock off anything flaky wire brush and use ospho then paint, but just prep and por-15 would probably work fine too. I’ve used both and can’t say I’ve seen much difference long term, just be as thorough as possible.