Rolling the fender - The Unofficial BMW M5 Messageboard (m5board.com)

rennen · 20th February 2002, 05:23

Just wanted to know how anyone went about rolling their fenders? The new wheels are a little snug and I want to be safe. Any input is appreciated.

Apples · 20th February 2002, 06:03

Well i'm no expert by far.....but l did mine becase l went with 285's on the rear, and much lower suspension. All went well, in my eyes. I used a piece of wooden rod, a few feet long and about 1.5 - 2 inches thick. Thicker is better, as long as you can fit in between the tire and the fender. I then started at the bottom of the inside of the fender, and then folded/pressed the lip back in small sections in more of a rounded look internally, instead of it sticking out and cutting my tire under full loads. I did this by using the tire as the leverage. Do this every 1/4 of an inch or less for about 4 - 6 inches and that will turn that edge back and out of the way. Some of the paint on the inside may come loose, but there is no way you would see it. I will put the odd dab of paint on it soon....no biggie.
I can send you pics next week if you want to see the job.
There is is a good chance a decent shop would do a professional job, so look at that to.
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BostonRocket · 20th February 2002, 06:17

Apples,

Did I ever mention to you that you are my hero!?

'Rocket

VanM · 20th February 2002, 12:39

I have also done the same thing with my previous cars when I comes to rolling the fenders. As for the paint coming off on the inside of the fender, a heat gun will solve the problem if you can get your hands on one. Just heat up the area to be worked on before you start rolling and the paint should chip off. Hope that helps.

VanM · 20th February 2002, 12:41

I should probably read my posts more carefully before I post them up.

What I meant was after using the heat gun, the paint should NOT chip off.

Sorry.

kees · 20th February 2002, 13:33

Apples,

The way you describe it sounds like the typical Aussie solution - where a length of wood, some string and some bubble gum are applied successfully no matter the extent of the problem...

However, the method you describe is pretty much how many professional bodywork companies roll fender lips as well.

In my opinion, especially members in colder locations will want to avoid painting chipping / flaking at all costs to avoid any future rust problems.

Some slight variations, which may help to avoid paint chipping/flaking is to spread the pressure you put on the fender lip a bit by putting some thick cloth between the wood and fender lip. Also, using a round piece of wood or metal and actually rolling it between the tire and fender lip will help. Lastly, not bending the fender lip in 1 go, but in gradual steps should help.

/Kees

Apples · 20th February 2002, 16:29

Kees...you forgot to mention the duct tape, it's a must in OZ if you want to fix somthing, and do a REAL good.
The paint in that area is sort of softer then the external paint. It's got a rubber sort of feel to it, so a larger piece of wood...base ball bat would be good if it will fit. Protecting the lip is a good idea.
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