Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Wheels & Tires Fenders: grind or roll?

Okay, I did a search, but couldn't find a satisfactory answer to my question. I've got 18x8", 40 offset wheels w/ 225/40/18 tires, and I'm rubbing a bit in the rear. (Not much; just slightly over big bumps.) I read the threads that said this would happen with this tire size and offset, but I went for this combo it because I got a great deal on the wheels.

Now, I know I can roll or grind down my fenders a bit, but which is the way to go? I'm not worried about structural integrity with the grinding; I'd only take a couple mm off. But I AM worried about rust; is the fender metal coated or plated with some kind of anti-rust compound/metal, or is it the same throughout? If I do grind, would be okay to use touch-up paint to cover the exposed metal, or do I need some kind of sealant or special paint?

My other option is to roll, but I'm worried about the paint cracking at the fold. How much can I safely roll without serious danger of cracking the paint? (I'll be using a hair dryer to heat the area.)

I jsut "rolled" mine with the car on a lift, wheels off, and me with a dead blow hammer in my hand, worked out great!

Hey Alex...how far do you think you "rolled" them? As much as 1/2 an inch up? Did you heat the fender at all?

Hey these guys will loan you the fender rolling tool for $75. I think this is the best way to do it. I have seen some people chip, crack the paint when doing it so I guess just go slow. But that tool looks like it does a nice job.
-tropictour

I took the same approach as Alex. Lift the rear of the car and remove the wheel. Took a hammer and started banging on that little knife edge until it was pretty much flat with the fender. Didn't damage the paint, and more importantly, no more rub!

Mark