Check for rust- rear mud flap fender area

I am in Canada and want to make you aware of a rust-prone area for preventative maintenance. I caught mine in time to do a minor repair.

The rear mudflap on the inside of the wheel well is covered with the inside fender trim. This trim has two protrusions to accommodate two bolts, connecting the edge of the fender to a brace. Dirt will accumulate in these pockets, and the bolts are always wet. I removed mine and did the POR15, primer, base, and clear treatment. My area was still covered by the mudflaps, so I did not have to involve the panel in more extensive paint repair. Metal was getting very thin.

The photos shows the Left fender, as well as the Right fender with more severe rust

 

I always soak these spots with rust check when I do my truck. Keeps the moisture off the metal. I think this area also gets chafed from the mud flap moving around on the paint, exposing the metal to the elements and rust happens.

 

Excellent PSA thanks for posting the details and photos.

What year is your truck btw?

 

Thank you. Yes, those enclosed areas git'ya! Salt gays trapped in between and keeps eating away.

 

2014
The mud accumulates in the bubbles in the fender. The whole space was one solid piece of hard mud and will stay wet for extended periods. I broke the one bolt and had to weld a nut on the other end to take it off