I just bought a 2003 FX4, Level 2. It has fender flares, but I want to add mud flaps to it. It will be used for frequent driving in sand on the beach, so I would like to minimize what the tires throw up on the vehicle. I ordered some heavy duty Highland rubber flaps from Amazon that are 18"x12" and almost 1/4" thick. They can be custom cut to fit.

I am wondering how far I should mount the bottom edge from the ground? Any other tips on how to mount them would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

Welcome to the forum

For back wheels put a straight edge, straight stick, lol, from bottom of tire to the bottom of the bumper, that should show you where mud flap should hang at back of wheelwell

On the front you can use the same measurement as on the back so they match.

But really an aesthetic decision within a few inches of that measurement
You can go higher on the flaps because most debris is thrown when tire has the most weight on it, as you hit dips and tire flattens a bit, and wheel is higher in the wheel well at that time

I used sheet metal screws and large "fender washers" on mine for mounting.


You need to lower tire pressure for driving in sand, down in the 15-20psi range, as low as 10psi in very soft sand, but not too low or tire can break bead pressure and will go flat.
So having an air compressor handy to add some pressure back for on road travel to closest service station is a must.

12volt compressors work but are slow when pressure gets above 20psi, should get one that is rated for 140-160psi
Shop around, should be around $70-90 for a better one

 

Thanks, that is very helpful info.