Originally posted by garrick:
With all your knowledge, you still don't realize the wheel arch liners help keep water and debris out of the engine compartment?

Sorry for the sarcasm, but yes, that's something about which you need to be wary. You'd be inviting a host of electrical problems, even a cracked block if you got a healthy splash of cold water in just the right spot. Packing the engine compartment with snow is another fun image...

You could yank out the liners, but then I'd advise against driving on wet/snowy roads or through puddles. Look for the "witness marks" to see exactly where you're rubbing. You might be able to re-shape the liners with heat, or you might find that a camber correction would help. Or better yet, you might find that a more reasonable ride height will restore the functionality of your 'Tour.



ahem, i don't rock a 'tour.

but yes i see what you mean. my main concern was of course an unprotected engine bay...but i planned on having the fenders rolled and possibly pulled 3/4" to an inch, but then i lose my points where the fender liner attaches to the fender.

here are some pics of the rubbage...it has gotten worse since this (taken a couple months ago before i lowered it some more):






2001 VW Jetta Wolfsburg Edition 20 valves of fury