For the last few weeks I've been working on transforming my 2004 4Runner from a tame-but-capable SUV into a rig that's truly ready for the dirt.
Part of this process has been the installation of a pair of Fiberwerx fiberglass front fenders. The fenders came with the factory mounting points molded in, but since I've seen too many fiberglass body panels round out their fastener holes, I decided to bypass the factory mounting system completely.
My solution was a pseudo race mounting system. I say pseudo because the 'Runner doesn't have a roll cage to attach the fiberglass to. Instead, I built a tubular structure that ties into the front door hinges and runs along the top edge of the engine bay. The fiberglass will hang from this tubular structure.
The other aspect of this mounting system that's 'pseudo' racing-style is the fasteners themselves. Most racers use dzus quarter-turn quick release fasteners. Instead, I'm using a really slick new product from Autofab. Autofab's panel mounts consist of a urethane grommet, a flush-mount bolt, a tab, and a nylock nut. This system doesn't release the panel as quickly as a dzus fastener, but it does hold the panel tightly and insulates it from shock and vibration. I can't stand creaking noises in a vehicle, so insulating the fiberglass from rubbing against nearby sheet metal is a priority.
The 'glass is almost mounted, but I had to stop working for the night to go home and get a little sleep. No photos this time...sorry!