The Truck Hardware Gatorback Black Plate Mud Flaps set of 4 combines serious protection with a sleek black anodized aluminum plate for the 2024-2027 Ford Ranger Raptor. 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 cut from heavy 1/2" thick premium rubber, mounted with custom fit brackets and hardware 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, slush and road debris, so you will see your truck staying cleaner longer, less mess on your step bars, and fewer rock chips in the paint. The black plate gives it 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, 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.
• Black anodized aluminum plates - Lightweight, sturdy aluminum with a black anodized finish adds a sleek, blacked-out look and extra resistance to wear and corrosion.
• Custom fit, no drilling - Custom designed for the 2024-2027 Ranger Raptor, using the factory fasteners already in place, with any additional hardware you need 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 Truck?

Gatorback mud flaps for the 2024-2027 Ford Ranger Raptor come in several versions. Use this quick guide to make sure you pick the right one:

• Ranger Raptor only - This set is custom designed for the 2024-2027 Ranger Raptor. Standard Ranger Gatorback sets do not fit the Raptor.
• Coverage - You get 9.25" of front and 11" of rear tire coverage from the bottom of the fender to the bottom of the flap.
• Blackout builds - The black anodized and black wrap plates match other blacked-out accessories for a cohesive look.
• Choosing a style - This version is the black anodized aluminum plate style. It is also available in: black anodized Raptor logo, black wrap Raptor logo and plain rubber (no plate).

Features and Benefits

These flaps are made from heavy-duty, 1/2" thick premium rubber that offers outstanding durability and effective protection against rocks, mud and other elements. The 12" wide flaps give you 9.25" of tire coverage up front and 11" in the rear, measured from the bottom of the fender to the bottom of the flap, effectively reducing mud splatter, rock chips and overall road grime so your truck stays cleaner longer and avoids unnecessary wear and tear.

Each flap carries a black anodized aluminum plate. The anodized finish gives the plate a sleek, blacked-out look and adds an extra layer of durability, helping it resist wear and corrosion over time, while the aluminum keeps it lightweight yet sturdy. Each 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. These flaps are custom designed for the 2024-2027 Ford Ranger Raptor for a perfect, seamless fit. They use the factory fasteners already in place, so no drilling into the body is needed, and they fit flush inside the wheel wells for a factory-like finish that complements the Raptor's rugged style. They work with step bars, power boards and side steps. Gatorback mud flaps are proudly made in Canada.

Installation

Installation is hassle-free with a custom fit design that requires no drilling into the truck body. The flaps use the factory fasteners already in place, and any additional hardware needed is included. Installation takes about 15 minutes per flap with common tools you already have at home, and the flaps fit flush inside the wheel wells for a factory-like finish. 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 front mud flaps (1 driver side, 1 passenger side)
• (2) Gatorback Black Plate rear mud flaps (1 driver side, 1 passenger side)
• Custom fit mounting brackets and all required mounting hardware

Care & Maintenance

• Clean the rubber regularly with a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt, mud and grime. Regular cleaning helps keep the rubber flexible and extends the life of the flaps.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and petroleum-based cleaners, which can degrade rubber over time.
• Rinse thoroughly and let the flaps air dry for best results.
• Clean the anodized aluminum plates with a mild soap and water solution and a soft cloth, avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that may damage the anodized finish, and follow the full anodized aluminum care guide below, including the important notes about touch-free car washes.
• 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

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 fender, blocking road spray and debris (9.25" front; 11" rear on this set of 4).
• 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: GCR416K-AA
• Position: Set of 4 (front and rear, driver and passenger)
• Fitment: 2024-2027 Ford Ranger Raptor
• Does Not Fit: Standard Ranger (non-Raptor)
• Style: Black anodized aluminum plates for a sleek, blacked-out look
• Plate: Black anodized aluminum, 10 1/4" x 5"
• Flap Width: 12"
• Rubber: 1/2" thick heavy-duty virgin rubber
• Tire Coverage: Front 9.25", rear 11" from fender to bottom of flap
• Installation: No body drilling, about 15 minutes per flap
• Made In: Canada
• Warranty: Limited lifetime, rubber only (plates, brackets and hardware not covered)