11/05/2022
Nutserts Are Evil. Anyone who has attempted to remove the transfer case skid plate from a TJ knows this. Today, however, I compromised my principals. I re-attached the rear fenders flares on my JK with nutsets and bolts.
I stuck with my stock fender flares because I like that they would come off rather than get damaged, but the after market fender clips I've been using are too brittle and the fender would come off with the lightest contact. I needed something stronger.
I've avoided using nutserts for years, but since most of the mounting holes aren't accessible from behind, using nutserts and bolts seemed the best available option.
The installation went well. It was quick, clean, and appears to be strong. The clip-slot in the fender has a slot that would allow the bolt to slide through under excessive stress, so I think they'll work as desired.
I know from experience, however, that nutserts are eveil things, engineered to bring heart break and frustration to those who use them. Despite the success of the installation, someday, somehow, I will regret it.
Note: this page has been dormant for some time. A change in career and a heavy work schedule has kept me from many things. I'm hoping to get back to it on a regular basis.
