109 V8 Flexi Flares

After fitting the new sliders which sit 40mm proud of the bodywork, I decided that in order to create a "balanced look", I needed to fit a set of flares.  The original Defender flares are great but at around $300NZ for a set of second hand ones, they are a little expensive.  So I decided to fit a set of "Bushranger Flexi Flares".

The Flexi Flares are available in two widths, 35mm and 65mm (I used the 65mm).  They are a rubber composite extrusion which incorporates a compressive lip that conforms to the wheel arch panelling, and a full length cavity on the outer edge which accepts a spring steel wire.  This spring steel wire provides rigidity to the flare while still allowing flexibility.  Being made form soft rubber, the flares are extremely flexible and won't break.

Installation is really easy. 
The box contains two lengths of flares (enough for four wheel arches), two lengths of spring steel wire, self drilling - self tapping screws, and instructions.

1. First, jack the vehicle and remove the wheel.
2. Measure the required lengths of flare based on the length of wheel arch, add a bit for trimming, and cut the long flare to length.  For the landrover, just cut the long lengths in two.
3. Start with the center of the flare in the center of the wheel arch, and using a battery drill, screw the self drilling/tapping screw through the flare and into the folded edge of the wheel arch.  There is a groove in the flare to act as a screwing guide.  You have to keep some pressure pushing the flare onto the side of the wheel arch panel to get a neat finish.
   "Start in the middle and work you way to the ends ....."
4. Once the first screw is in place, you simply work your way out to the ends fitting screws every 75mm or so.
   The groove used as a screwing guide can be clearly seen
5. Once the ends are screwed in place, you can trim them to suit the shape of the guard.
6. The next bit can be dangerous if you are not careful.  The spring steel wire needs to be uncoiled, as it comes coiled and wire tied.  Hold the spring steel coil very tightly and cut the tie wires very carefully!! 
7. Once you have unravelled the wire, it needs to be cut to length to match the outside edge of the flare, minus about one inch.  It is best to cut the wire with a disc grinder if available.  File the end of the wire so it is nice and round with no sharp edges.
8. Spray some CRC or better still, use the point on a grease gun to force some grease up the cavity on the outside edge of the flare.  Then push the spring steel wire up the cavity to stiffen the edge of the flare.
9. Refit the wheel.
10. Done!
    The first one fitted ....... only three to go

It takes about 3/4 of an hour to complete wheel arch from start to finish.  It really transforms the looks of the 109.  This is actually the second Landrover that I have fitted the Flexi Flares to and I can highly recommend them!

The finished product