The Truck Hardware Gatorback Black Anodized Super Duty Mud Flaps rear pair combines serious protection with the officially licensed Super Duty logo on a matte black anodized aluminum plate for 2023-2027 Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty single rear wheel trucks. 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 with custom fit brackets made for your exact truck, and backed by a lifetime warranty on the rubber. The result is a flap that hangs straight, stays put at highway speed, and keeps doing its job for the life of your truck.
These 12" wide 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 officially licensed Super Duty logo is licensed through Ford Accessories, and the matte black anodized plate gives it a sleek, custom, blacked-out look. Gatorback flaps are some of the highest quality, heaviest duty mud guards in the industry, they are test fit on every model year by Ford Accessories, 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 stays strong and flexible through heat, cold, rocks and gravel for years of reliable protection.
- Officially licensed Super Duty logo - Licensed through Ford Accessories and die-stamped into a matte black anodized aluminum plate with a hand-applied vinyl overlay for a sleek, corrosion-resistant finish.
- Custom fit, no drilling - Custom fit brackets and hardware made for the 2023-2027 F-250 and F-350 are included, and Ford Accessories test fits the flaps on each model year, so you get a precise, factory-quality fit with no holes drilled in your truck.
- Lifetime rubber warranty - If a flap comes off the truck or is damaged from normal wear and tear, Gatorback sends replacement rubber at no charge for as long as you own the truck.
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:
- Front pair, rear pair, or set of 4 - This listing is the rear pair only (2 flaps). Add a front pair for front wheel coverage, or choose a set of 4 to protect all four wheel wells.
- Single rear wheel vs. dually - This listing fits single rear wheel (SRW) trucks only. Dual rear wheel (DRW) trucks need Gatorback Dually rear flaps, which use extra-wide 21" rear flaps. The front wheels are the same on both, so front pairs fit SRW and dually trucks.
- Tremor, lifted trucks, or oversized tires - This flap does NOT fit Tremor models. For a Tremor, or a truck with a lift or level kit or oversized tires, choose Gatorback Offset mud flaps, which use 1.5" offset nylon kickback brackets for extra tire clearance and fit all models including Tremor.
- Choosing a style - This version is the black anodized Super Duty style. This rear pair is also available in: plain rubber (no plate), black Ford oval, blue Ford oval, FX4, Platinum, Super Duty, American flag, black American flag, black anodized aluminum plate, black wrap Ford oval, F-250, F-350, gunmetal plate, black wrap FX4, black anodized Ford oval 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 weight of the thick rubber keeps the flaps from sailing at highway speed, so they stay in place and keep protecting your truck. At 12" wide with 11.5" of tire coverage from the bottom of the fender to the bottom of the flap, they catch the rocks, mud and slush your rear tires throw back toward your bumper, any trailer you are towing, and the drivers behind you.
The officially licensed Super Duty logo is licensed through Ford Accessories, ensuring it looks perfect, and is die-stamped into a matte finish black anodized aluminum plate with a hand-applied vinyl overlay. The anodized aluminum is lightweight yet sturdy, with a corrosion-resistant finish that holds its appearance in all weather. The plate measures 10 1/4" x 5". To keep that finish looking its best, follow the anodized aluminum care guide below.
Fit is built in. Gatorback flaps are designed specifically for the 2023-2027 Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty, including XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum and Limited trims, and Ford Accessories test fits the flaps on each model year to confirm fitment. This rear pair fits single rear wheel trucks; dually trucks need the 21" Gatorback Dually rear flaps. They do not fit Tremor models due to tire clearance. The flaps mount to your truck's factory mounting locations with no body drilling, so your truck's body stays untouched and your resale value is protected. They also install flush to the inside of the wheel well, so they work alongside step bars, power boards and side steps without getting in the way. Gatorback mud flaps are proudly made in Canada.
Installation
Installation is simple, with no body drilling required. The flaps mount to your truck's factory existing mounting locations, and the custom fit brackets and hardware you need for a solid installation are included. Installation can be done with tools you already have at home and takes about 15 minutes per flap. The flaps install flush to the inside of the wheel well for a clean, factory look. 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 Anodized Super Duty 12" wide rear mud flaps (1 driver side, 1 passenger side)
- Custom fit brackets and mounting hardware for the 2023-2027 Ford F-250 and F-350
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.
- Gently clean the vinyl logo overlay with a soft cloth to maintain its finish.
- 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 only. This warranty covers rubber replacement (for example, tear-offs) for the lifetime of the product to the original owner. If a flap comes off the truck or is damaged due to normal wear and tear, let us know and we will send you a replacement piece of rubber at no charge.
Plates, brackets 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 (11.5" on these rear flaps). More coverage means more protection.
- Sailing - When a lightweight flap lifts and flaps at speed. The heavy 1/2" rubber keeps Gatorbacks from sailing.
- SRW / DRW - Single rear wheel and dual rear wheel (dually) trucks. This rear pair fits SRW trucks.
- Anodized aluminum - Aluminum treated with an anodized coating for a durable, corrosion-resistant finish that stays lightweight and sleek.
- Die-stamped - The logo is pressed into the metal plate for a crisp, permanent design.
- Hand-applied vinyl overlay - Vinyl applied by hand to the stamped logo to add color and contrast.
- Officially licensed - The logo is licensed by Ford, so it matches the official design.
Specs at a Glance
- Brand: Truck Hardware Gatorback
- Part Number: GCR412R-SDA
- Position: Rear pair (driver and passenger)
- Fitment: 2023-2027 Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty, single rear wheel
- Trims: XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum and Limited
- Does Not Fit: Tremor (see Gatorback Offset mud flaps)
- Style: Officially licensed Super Duty logo on matte black anodized aluminum plates
- Plate: Matte black anodized aluminum, 10 1/4" x 5"
- Flap Width: 12"
- Rubber Thickness: 1/2" virgin rubber
- Tire Coverage: 11.5" from fender to bottom of flap
- Installation: No body drilling, custom fit brackets and hardware included, about 15 minutes per flap
- Made In: Canada
- Warranty: Limited lifetime, rubber only (plates, brackets and hardware not covered)