The Truck Hardware Gatorback Black Plate Offset Mud Flaps set of 4 combines serious protection with a sleek black anodized aluminum plate for 2023-2027 Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty single rear wheel trucks, including Tremor models. Gatorback is a premium mud flap built to a higher standard than typical aftermarket flaps, and it shows the moment you pick one up. Each flap is almost a 1/2" thick virgin rubber, mounted on custom fit 1.5" offset nylon kickback brackets for extra tire clearance, and backed by a lifetime warranty on the rubber. The result is a flap that clears bigger tires and lifted suspensions and keeps doing its job for the life of your truck.

These heavy-duty flaps protect your truck from rocks, mud, gravel, snow and road debris, so you will see your truck staying cleaner longer, less junk on your step bars, and fewer rock chips in the paint. The black plate gives your truck a sleek, aggressive, blacked-out look that stands out on and off the road. Gatorback flaps are some of the highest quality, heaviest duty mud guards in the industry. 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 stays strong and flexible through heat, cold, rocks and gravel for years of reliable protection.
• Black anodized aluminum plates - Lightweight, sturdy aluminum with a black anodized coating adds a sleek, blacked-out look and extra corrosion resistance.
• 1.5" offset kickback brackets - Nylon and fiberglass composite kickback brackets set the flaps back 1.5" for extra tire clearance, so they fit every 2023-2027 F-250 and F-350 single rear wheel truck including Tremor, and work with lift or level kits and oversized tires, with no body drilling.
• Lifetime rubber warranty - The rubber is covered for life against tears or damage under normal use, and the nylon brackets carry a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects.

Which Gatorback Is Right for Your Truck?

Gatorback mud flaps for the 2023-2027 Super Duty come in several versions. Use this quick guide to make sure you pick the right one:

• Offset set of 4 - This listing is a complete offset set of 4 (front pair and rear pair) that protects all four wheel wells.
• Single rear wheel trucks - Offset sets fit single rear wheel (SRW) 2023-2027 F-250 and F-350 trucks. Dually trucks need Gatorback Dually flaps.
• Tremor, lifted trucks, or oversized tires - This is the Offset version. Its 1.5" offset nylon kickback brackets add tire clearance, so it fits all models including Tremor and is ideal for trucks with lift or level kits or oversized tires. Standard (non-offset) Gatorback flaps do not fit Tremor models.
• Choosing a style - This version is the black anodized aluminum plate style. This offset set of 4 is also available in: plain rubber (no plate), black anodized Ford oval, black anodized gray Tremor, black anodized Tremor, black wrap gray Tremor, black wrap Tremor, black American flag and gunmetal Ford oval.

Features and Benefits

These flaps are made from heavy-duty, 1/2" thick virgin rubber, a high-quality, unrefined rubber that offers better strength, flexibility and wear resistance than recycled rubber. The thick rubber stays flexible and holds its shape while it deflects debris. With 11" of tire coverage up front and 11.5" in the rear, measured from the bottom of the fender to the bottom of the flap, they protect all four wheel wells. A sliding channel allows the rubber to be removed from the bracket.

Each flap carries a black anodized aluminum plate. The anodized coating gives the plate a sleek, blacked-out finish and enhanced corrosion resistance, while the aluminum keeps it lightweight yet sturdy. To keep that finish looking its best, follow the anodized aluminum care guide below.

Fit is built in. These offset flaps are designed specifically for 2023-2027 Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty single rear wheel trucks, including XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum and Tremor trims. The nylon kickback brackets are made from a nylon and fiberglass composite that resists fading, chipping and cracking, and they set the flaps back 1.5" for added tire clearance on trucks with oversized tires or lift and level kits. All included hardware is black oxide stainless steel for corrosion resistance and a cohesive look. The flaps mount to your truck's factory mounting points and existing fasteners with no body drilling, so your truck's body stays untouched and your resale value is protected, and they mount flush to the inside of the wheel well so they work with step bars, power boards and side steps.

Installation

Installation is simple, with no body drilling required. The flaps mount using your truck's factory mounting points and existing fasteners, and the custom fit nylon kickback brackets and black oxide stainless steel hardware you need for a secure, precise installation are included. Installation can be done with tools you already have at home, and the custom fit design mounts flush to the inside of the wheel well. 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 Plate Offset front mud flaps (1 driver side, 1 passenger side)
• (2) Gatorback Black Plate Offset rear mud flaps (1 driver side, 1 passenger side)
• Custom fit nylon kickback mounting brackets
• All necessary hardware, including black oxide stainless steel fasteners

Care & Maintenance

• Clean the rubber with a mild soap and water solution. Regular cleaning helps keep the rubber flexible and extends the life of the flaps.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and petroleum-based cleaners, which can break down rubber over time.
• Rinse thoroughly and let the flaps air dry for best results.
• Clean the anodized aluminum plates with a soft cloth and a non-abrasive, pH-neutral cleaner, and avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the finish. Follow the full anodized aluminum care guide below, including the important notes about touch-free car washes.
• Wipe down the nylon kickback brackets with a damp cloth and a mild pH-balanced soap to keep them in top condition.
• Check the mounting hardware periodically and retighten if needed, especially after off-road or rough-road driving.

Anodized Aluminum Plate 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

Gatorback mud flaps are backed by a limited lifetime warranty on the rubber portion of the flap, covering tears or damage under normal use for the lifetime of the product to the original owner. If a flap is damaged due to normal wear and tear, let us know and we will send you a replacement piece of rubber at no charge. The nylon kickback brackets include a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects.

Plates and mounting hardware are not covered by the warranty. 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 - High-quality rubber in its original, unrefined state, which is stronger and more durable than recycled rubber.
• No-drill installation - Mounting that uses your truck's factory mounting points, so no holes are drilled in the body.
• Tire coverage - How far the flap extends below the fender (11" front and 11.5" rear). More coverage means more protection.
• SRW / DRW - Single rear wheel and dual rear wheel (dually) trucks. This set fits SRW trucks, including Tremor.
• Anodized aluminum - Aluminum treated with an anodized coating for a durable, corrosion-resistant finish that stays lightweight and sleek.
• Offset / kickback bracket - A bracket that sets the flap back from the tire (1.5" here) for extra clearance without interference.
• Black oxide stainless steel fasteners - Stainless steel hardware coated with black oxide for corrosion resistance and a cohesive appearance with the flaps.

Specs at a Glance

• Brand: Truck Hardware Gatorback
• Part Number: GCN412K-AA
• Position: Offset set of 4 (front and rear, driver and passenger)
• Fitment: 2023-2027 Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty, single rear wheel, including Tremor
• Trims: XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum and Tremor
• Style: Black anodized aluminum plates for a sleek, blacked-out look
• Plate: Black anodized aluminum
• Flap Width: 12.5"
• Rubber Thickness: 1/2" virgin rubber
• Tire Coverage: Front 11", rear 11.5" from fender to bottom of flap
• Brackets: 1.5" offset nylon and fiberglass composite kickback brackets
• Hardware: Black oxide stainless steel fasteners
• Installation: No body drilling, factory mounting points
• Warranty: Limited lifetime on the rubber; 1-year on nylon brackets (manufacturing defects); plates and hardware not covered