The Truck Hardware Gatorback Black American Flag Mud Flaps set of 4 combines serious protection with a black and white American flag design on a stainless steel plate for 2025-2027 Ford Expedition King Ranch, King Ranch MAX, Platinum, Platinum MAX and Tremor models (not compatible with the Active trim with platform running boards). Gatorback is a premium mud flap built to a higher standard than typical aftermarket splash guards, and it shows the moment you pick one up. Each flap is cut from heavy 1/2" thick virgin rubber designed to flex, not crack, in extreme temperatures, mounted on black anodized aluminum brackets made for your Expedition, and backed by a lifetime warranty on the rubber. Whether you are hauling kids to school, heading off-road for the weekend, or cruising the highway, these flaps keep doing their job.

These 12" wide flaps protect your SUV from rocks, mud, gravel, snow, slush and road debris, so you will see your SUV staying cleaner longer, less mess on your step bars and trailer, and fewer rock chips in the paint. The black and white American flag emblem is exclusively available at SharpTruck and gives your SUV an iconic, rugged appearance. Gatorback flaps are some of the highest quality, heaviest duty mud guards in the industry, and they are proudly made in Canada. If you are looking for mud flaps you buy once and never think about again, this is them.

Key Features

• Heavy-duty 1/2" thick virgin rubber - Many aftermarket flaps use thinner, recycled rubber that can curl, sag or tear over time. Gatorbacks use thick, premium virgin rubber that resists cracking and stays strong and flexible through heat, cold, rocks and gravel.
• Exclusive black American flag plates - A black and white American flag on a stainless steel plate, exclusively available at SharpTruck, for a distinctive, rugged look.
• Black anodized aluminum brackets, no drilling - Corrosion-resistant matte black brackets mount using factory holes directly over the OEM wheel well liners, with all stainless hardware included.
• Lifetime rubber warranty - The rubber is covered against tear-offs for the life of the product to the original owner, so you buy once and stay protected.

Which Gatorback Is Right for Your Vehicle?

Gatorback mud flaps for the 2025-2027 Ford Expedition come in several versions. Use this quick guide to make sure you pick the right one:

• Trims that fit - This set is made for the 2025-2027 Expedition King Ranch, King Ranch MAX, Platinum, Platinum MAX and Tremor.
• Platform running boards - It is NOT compatible with the Expedition Active trim equipped with platform running boards.
• Built for your liners - The flaps install directly over the OEM wheel well liners using factory holes, so they look like they came straight from the factory.
• Choosing a style - This version is the black American flag style. It is also available in: black plate.

Features and Benefits

These mud flaps are built from high-grade, dense virgin rubber, 1/2" thick, that resists curling, cracking or tearing and stays flexible year-round in extreme temperatures. They extend approximately 8.75" below the wheel well liner at both the front and rear, giving you balanced protection on all corners. That coverage helps prevent rocks and slush from being kicked up onto running boards, paint or trailers, especially important if you run larger wheels or aftermarket tires. Less mess on your trailer, less gravel blasted at your rear bumper, and fewer chips on your doors add up to a cleaner ride and lower long-term maintenance costs.

The black and white American flag emblem, exclusively available at SharpTruck, is prominently displayed on a stainless steel plate for an iconic, rugged appearance. The flaps mount on precision-formed black anodized aluminum upper brackets finished in a sleek black coating that resists corrosion and won't rust or bend out of shape over time. To keep that finish looking its best, follow the anodized aluminum care guide below.

Unlike universal splash guards, Gatorback flaps are engineered for a clean, flush fit that looks like it came straight from the factory. They are designed for 2025-2027 Expedition King Ranch, King Ranch MAX, Platinum, Platinum MAX and Tremor models, mount using factory holes, and install directly over the OEM wheel well liner, helping retain your SUV's original finish while enhancing its protection. They are not compatible with the Expedition Active trim equipped with platform running boards. Gatorback mud flaps are proudly made in Canada.

Installation

Installation is simple, with no drilling and no special tools required. The flaps mount directly to the existing hardware points on your Expedition using factory holes and install over the OEM wheel well liner. Everything you need is in the box, from bolts to brackets to detailed instructions, so you can finish the job in your driveway in under an hour using common hand tools. Install videos and installation instructions are available so you can see the full process step by step before you start.

What's Included

• (2) Gatorback Black American Flag 12" wide front mud flaps
• (2) Gatorback Black American Flag 12" wide rear mud flaps
• Black anodized aluminum upper mounting brackets
• All required stainless mounting hardware
• Installation instructions

Care & Maintenance

• Routine cleaning: use a soft-bristle brush with mild soap and water.
• Avoid harsh cleaners: petroleum- or solvent-based cleaners may dry out the rubber.
• UV protection: in high-sunlight areas, apply a water-based rubber conditioner to maintain color and flexibility.
• Seasonal attention: clean more often in winter or dusty environments to avoid long-term buildup.
• Black anodized brackets: clean with gentle, neutral cleaning agents and avoid aggressive chemicals and abrasive techniques. Follow the full anodized aluminum care guide below.
• Clean the stainless steel flag plate with a soft cloth and a gentle stainless steel cleaner, and avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the finish.
• Check the mounting hardware periodically and retighten if needed, especially after off-road or rough-road driving.

Anodized Aluminum Bracket Care

Anodized aluminum is a durable, corrosion-resistant material featuring a specialized coating that enhances protection against rust while providing an attractive finish. To preserve its appearance and functionality, appropriate cleaning methods are essential. Incorrect cleaning practices may compromise the coating, resulting in fading or pitting. This guide provides detailed instructions on maintenance, including routine procedures, advanced cleaning techniques, precautions, and considerations regarding touch-free car washes.

Routine Cleaning and Preventive Maintenance

Regular cleaning is necessary to prevent the accumulation of contaminants that could impair the surface. Employ non-abrasive methods to safeguard the thin protective layer.

• Frequency: Perform cleaning every 3 months, or more frequently in environments with high pollution, proximity to coastal areas (where salt may accelerate corrosion), or high usage.
• Basic Method:
  • Begin by rinsing with plain water to remove loose debris. Utilize a soft sponge or cloth for gentle wiping.
  • For minor soiling, prepare a solution of mild, pH-neutral soap (such as dish detergent) with warm water. Apply using a soft cloth, employing circular motions without excessive force.
  • Rinse thoroughly with clean water to eliminate any residue.
  • Dry the surface promptly with a soft towel to avoid water spots.
• Tools: Select non-abrasive items such as soft-bristle brushes or cloths. Avoid steel wool or abrasive pads, as they may scratch and damage the coating.
• Preventive Measures:
  • Apply a suitable protective wax or sealant designed for anodized aluminum following cleaning (e.g., automotive-grade waxes for vehicle parts).
  • In urban or industrial settings, monitor for acidic precipitation or organic deposits, which may etch the surface if not addressed promptly.
  • Store items indoors when feasible to mitigate ultraviolet fading of colored finishes.

Deep Cleaning for Persistent Contaminants

For significant buildup, such as oxidation or embedded grime, employ more intensive yet cautious approaches. Always test methods on an inconspicuous area first.

• Mild Abrasive Methods: Form a paste with baking soda and water for gentle application with a soft cloth, followed by thorough rinsing. For oxidized sections, use fine-grit sandpaper (600-1000) lightly with water and polish afterward, though this should be infrequent to prevent thinning the coating.
• Commercial Products: Select cleaners formulated for anodized aluminum with a neutral pH. Citrus-based options are suitable; refrain from using unverified household cleaners.

Practices to Avoid

Anodized aluminum is susceptible to substances that may dissolve or abrade its protective oxide layer.

• Harsh Chemicals: Refrain from using strong acids (e.g., hydrochloric or phosphoric) or alkalis (e.g., sodium hydroxide), as they may cause etching, discoloration, or removal of the finish.
• Abrasive Tools: Avoid vigorous scrubbing implements or polishes that could dull the surface and expose the base metal.
• High-Pressure Washing: While suitable for initial rinsing, limit pressure to under 1,000 PSI to prevent intrusion into seams.
• Environmental Exposures: Minimize contact with chlorine, fluoride, or heavy metals, which may induce pitting.

Impact of Touch-Free Car Washes on Anodized Aluminum

Touch-free car washes offer convenience and minimize paint scratches by employing high-pressure jets and chemical applications without physical contact. However, they may adversely affect anodized aluminum elements, such as trim or wheels, owing to the intensity of the processes and chemicals.

• Potential Damage: These systems frequently utilize high-pH alkaline detergents and acidic pre-treatments that can interact with the coating, leading to discoloration, dulling, etching, or fading. Alkaline agents are particularly detrimental, potentially dissolving the layer and resulting in a chalky or pitted appearance. Repeated use may exacerbate issues, especially on colored anodizing, causing inconsistent hues or loss of gloss.
• Risk Factors: The absence of mechanical brushing necessitates more potent chemicals and elevated pressures (up to 1,500 PSI), which may infiltrate seals or aggravate minor imperfections. Although generally compatible with standard automotive paint, these washes can deplete protective sealants on anodized components more rapidly.
• Recommendations: Avoid touch-free car washes for items featuring anodized aluminum whenever possible, particularly those with high-alkaline formulations. Prefer manual washing with pH-neutral solutions. If utilization is necessary (e.g., for seasonal salt removal), rinse affected areas thoroughly afterward and apply a protective coating. Verify the chemical composition of the wash or conduct a test on a small section if gentler options are claimed.

Common Harsh Chemicals in Touch-Free Car Washes

Touch-free systems depend on robust chemical blends for effective cleaning without contact. These typically include:

• Alkaline Detergents: High-pH (9-14) compounds such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, which emulsify oils and grime but may etch anodized aluminum by eroding the oxide layer.
• Acidic Pre-Treatments: Low-pH (2-5) solutions incorporating hydrofluoric acid, phosphoric acid, or citric acid to dissolve mineral deposits and salts. These can induce pitting or discoloration if not adequately neutralized.
• Surfactants and Solvents: Components like volatile organic compounds (VOCs), glycol ethers, or petroleum distillates that facilitate cleaning but may include irritants capable of degrading seals and finishes over time.
• Additional Agents: Chelating compounds, foam enhancers, or corrosion inhibitors intended for protection, yet potentially abrasive in elevated concentrations. Multi-step processes alternating acidic and alkaline applications heighten risks for sensitive materials such as anodized aluminum.

These formulations prioritize efficiency and compatibility with paint, rendering them less ideal for specialized coatings like anodized aluminum.

Effective maintenance of anodized aluminum requires consistent application of gentle, neutral cleaning agents to prolong its durability and preserve its attributes. By eschewing aggressive chemicals and abrasive techniques, irreversible damage can be averted. Although touch-free car washes provide convenience, their dependence on potent alkaline and acidic substances presents notable risks to anodized surfaces, potentially causing discoloration or deterioration; manual methods are preferable where feasible. In the event of damage, seek professional assistance for restoration. Adhering to these recommendations will ensure the material retains its optimal condition for an extended period.

Warranty

Truck Hardware stands behind the quality of its Gatorback mud flaps with a limited lifetime warranty on the rubber portion of the flap only. This warranty covers rubber replacement (for example, tear-offs) for the lifetime of the product to the original owner, including replacement due to normal wear and tear on the rubber.

Plates, brackets and mounting hardware are not covered by the warranty, including normal wear and tear on those parts. The warranty also does not cover damage caused by misuse, abuse or improper installation. To start a warranty claim, please provide product photos and proof of purchase.

Terms to Know

• Virgin rubber - Rubber that has not been recycled or reprocessed, offering better consistency, durability, flexibility and resistance to cracking than reclaimed rubber.
• No-drill installation - Mounting that uses your vehicle's factory mounting points, so no holes are drilled and the original body and finish are preserved.
• Tire coverage - How far the flap extends below the wheel well liner, blocking road spray and debris (8.75" front; 8.75" rear on this set of 4).
• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) - Factory-installed parts; these flaps install cleanly over the existing OEM wheel well liners.
• Anodized aluminum - Aluminum treated with an electrochemical process that creates a protective oxide layer, improving corrosion resistance and surface hardness for a durable, sleek finish.

Specs at a Glance

• Brand: Truck Hardware Gatorback
• Part Number: GCAA418K-AFB
• Position: Set of 4 (front and rear, driver and passenger)
• Fitment: 2025-2027 Ford Expedition
• Trims: King Ranch, King Ranch MAX, Platinum, Platinum MAX and Tremor
• Does Not Fit: Expedition Active with platform running boards
• Style: Black and white American flag design on stainless steel plates, exclusive to SharpTruck
• Plate: Stainless steel
• Brackets: Black anodized aluminum, matte finish
• Flap Width: 12"
• Rubber: 1/2" thick heavy-duty virgin rubber
• Tire Coverage: Front 8.75", rear 8.75" below the wheel well liner
• Installation: No drilling, under an hour with common hand tools
• Made In: Canada
• Warranty: Limited lifetime, rubber only (plates, brackets and hardware not covered)