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This thread is specifically going to address the installation and first impression of the Rockstar Tow Flap on a 2017 Ford F-350 dually. For a full conversation on the many options available for mud flaps and any comments that are not specifically targeted to the Rockstar, please see Keith's ( Yoda 's ) thread on the topic here: https://gdrvowners.com/towing-and-hi...ler-protection
The Rockstar was simple to install. The only item that slowed me up (at first) was joining the two sections of the Rockstar together using the splice. The bolts are thread cutting bolts, so they do not screw in like a bolt going into a nut or pre-threaded hole. When it finally dawned on me what the instructions were trying to convey (and the 145 in-lbs torque value) I realized it was going to take some effort to get the thread cutting bolts started and seated.
The only other item of interest is the special bracket for my Ford did not match the instructions. It also appeared I was missing a heat shield (as was promised). After talking with a Customer Service rep I found out the special bracket for my Ford was redesigned to move the flap away from the exhaust, or further toward's the rear of the truck. The flap, as you'll see in the pics below, is right under the OEM receiver.
Finally, the only modification I'll make to the OEM install is replace the quick-removal pins with small locks. (To keep honest people honest.)
The first series of pictures below is without the Tow Guard, the Tow Guard sans extension, then the full setup.
This second set of pics shows the difference directly behind the dually's wheels with and without the extension.
Below shows the gap between the exhaust and the Tow Guard.
Finally, a side view of the install.
I'm pleased with the ease of the install and the fact that the Tow Guard does not attach to the ball mount (yes!). My only concern is it's stiff material, so curious what it will do to fuel mileage and if debris that strike the guard will bounce off and hit something else. Only time will tell.
Howard
The Rockstar was simple to install. The only item that slowed me up (at first) was joining the two sections of the Rockstar together using the splice. The bolts are thread cutting bolts, so they do not screw in like a bolt going into a nut or pre-threaded hole. When it finally dawned on me what the instructions were trying to convey (and the 145 in-lbs torque value) I realized it was going to take some effort to get the thread cutting bolts started and seated.
The only other item of interest is the special bracket for my Ford did not match the instructions. It also appeared I was missing a heat shield (as was promised). After talking with a Customer Service rep I found out the special bracket for my Ford was redesigned to move the flap away from the exhaust, or further toward's the rear of the truck. The flap, as you'll see in the pics below, is right under the OEM receiver.
Finally, the only modification I'll make to the OEM install is replace the quick-removal pins with small locks. (To keep honest people honest.)
The first series of pictures below is without the Tow Guard, the Tow Guard sans extension, then the full setup.
This second set of pics shows the difference directly behind the dually's wheels with and without the extension.
Below shows the gap between the exhaust and the Tow Guard.
Finally, a side view of the install.
I'm pleased with the ease of the install and the fact that the Tow Guard does not attach to the ball mount (yes!). My only concern is it's stiff material, so curious what it will do to fuel mileage and if debris that strike the guard will bounce off and hit something else. Only time will tell.
Howard
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