Inner Fender Installation

[Mr 396]

I have the fenders on my 68 and need to now install the inner fenders. My painter left them out and now I wonder what is the best way to install. Does not look like a straight forward process. What are the steps I need to take?

[Mike S]

 If it were my car I would remove the fenders to install them. You are almost guaranteed to scratch the paint and/or completely scratch the paint of the wheel opening edges (thus exposing to rust) if you try to install them any other way.
Tape and cover the fender and door front edges with a thin foam to protect the them. Mark the spacers when taking them off so you can put them back to the same locations. Also, the inner fender may change the outer fender gaps due to skewing the fender sheet metal when bolted (personal experience here).

Mike

[rich69rs]

Totally agree - removing the fenders is by far the safest way to ensure that you don't damage anything.

You might even want to consider going back to your painter / body shop and let them do it - at no charge.  IMO they should have known that inner fenders would be an issue if not installed with the fenders.

Good luck

Richard

[Mr 396]

Thanks. I was afraid that was what was needed.

[m22mike]

X3, sorry about that. You will have fits trying to install them with the fenders on. You can do it on Nova and Chevelle because the fender laps over the inner differently. Tape all the edges with a couple layers and use good tape. It won't be that bad.

Mike

[jacmac]

If you are concerned about rear fender,front door damage I usually use small rubber hose 5/16 or so,cut it down the center & wrap it around those edges. It will stay in place while installing of removing fenders.

[Mike S]

If you are concerned about rear fender,front door damage I usually use small rubber hose 5/16 or so,cut it down the center & wrap it around those edges. It will stay in place while installing of removing fenders.

That is an excellent idea!

Mike

[KevinW]

I had to remove my heater box on my freshly painted Camaro.  I removed the hood and pass side fender (and inner).  Fixed my issue, taped up the edges, reinstalled them (with better alignment) without scratching anything.  Taking your time, protecting surfaces and getting help are key.