Author Topic: Front Inner Fenders, purchase replacement ones or a good salvage pair?  (Read 1952 times)

Offline srodster

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Does anyone have experience with replacing the front inner fenders?
I have an '84 C20 crew cab, and need new ones on each side.
I was ready to pull the trigger and coincidentally was talking to a body guy, and he said I would be better to find ones off an original p/u to ensure all the holes are properly located.
He indicated that some of the new replacement inner fenders may not have the holes properly stamped, lined up, or slightly off in dimension.
I realize it's not an expensive part, but I don't have any experience with them.
Wondered if the gauge of metal on replacement is as thick as the original too.
(This is for a complete restoration project, not a daily driver.)
Thanks for any comments.

Offline impco lpg

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 I replaced mine with new aftermarket. NOT as strong as the original ones, but fitted fine with little adjustment. old is always better. 
1983 cucv m1009  blazer 6.2 4x4
1991 1500 suburban 5.7 4x4 lpg
2003 dodge ram 5.7 4x4 lpg
1985 chevy c10 stepside  2wd 5.7ltr 350 lpg

Offline 1967KaiserM715

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  • 1985 GMC K1500 w/ 6.5 TD
I did aftermarket as well (thank you new England rust), I actually had to redrill some holes to match up with factory fenders. Definitely want to prime and paint them as well, the e-coating won't last long on aftermarket fenders.

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Current Vehicles:1985 GMC K10(Daily) 1991 GMC K2500(Daily) 1975 Beetle(not running) 1985 Mercedes 300D(not running) 1952 M35    1967 M715(not running)
 1986 Chevy K30(under repair)

Offline ehjorten

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I bought aftermarket ones to replace on my '77 and they lined up pretty darn good!  The e-coating on them is just a primer, so you will need to paint them.  I also sprayed them with 3M undercoating, inside the wheelwell.
-Erik-
1991 V3500 - Gen V TBI 454, 4L80E, NP205, 14 bolt FF, D60, 8" Lift on 35s
1977 K20 Silverado - 350, THM350, NP203, 14 bolt FF, D44, Stock Lift on 31s
1969 Chevelle Malibu Sport Coupe - EFI350, THM350
1968 Chevrolet Step-side Pickup - 300HP L6

Offline srodster

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Ok, thanks.
I do have a couple salvage yards near by, so I will look to see if they have something, and if they are not beat up too much.  Appreciate the replies.  Otherwise I will go the aftermarket route.