I apologize for this being a double post, but I realized I was the one who split this discussion across two (2) different threads, so I just want to follow-up and close out this thread in case anyone ended up here and didn't see my resolution on the "other"
Weathertech mudflaps thread...
Here is what I eventually decided on:
Truck Hardware "Gatorback" splash guards/mudflaps
After a lot of Internet research, I have found that the best price/deal on these Gatorback splash guards is.... (drumroll please)
Your local Ford dealer
I now understand why/how
@kdjasper and
@RocknRescue had theirs dealer-installed before they picked their vehicles up:
Gatorbacks are a Ford-authorized Accessory
My dealer doesn't play in the Ford accessory market (they are not listed in the dealer search when you click on the "Get local pricing" link) by stocking/pushing authorized Ford accessories as part of their new car sales strategy, but I asked and they ordered the following Ford part # for me:
Splash Guards - Gatorback by Truck Hardware, Front Pair, w/F-150 Black Decal
While the above link is for the FRONT Gatorback splash guard kit, you will not be able to find the matching REAR Gatorback splash guard kit (for any style) on accessories.ford.com, but the Parts Counter person at your local dealership can order both front and rear kits internally thru the Ford Parts system.
Here are my reasons why you want to go with the Ford Part#/Kit:
- The mudflaps in the Ford kits are pre-cut/pre-drilled (ones thru distributor are not)
- The Ford kits include both the mudflaps and the "no-drill" aluminum mount kits
- The price for the combined kit (mudflaps & brackets) is cheaper than ordering each individually (which is what I was planning to do)
- There is zero charge for shipping if you chose the "Ship-to-Dealer" option (I would have had to pay two different shipping charges if I ordered individually)
- Shipping is lightening quick using Ford's internal distribution/shipping network (Dealer ordered Thursday afternoon & received by 8AM Friday morning)
- 10%-30% discount on Ford parts & accessories depending on time of year (e.g. 30% off offer on Ford parts/accessories during Black Friday last year)
- Ford-certified installation videos on YouTube for their Gatorback kits:
Having seen/felt these Gatorback mudflaps in-person now, I now agree with
@kdjasper and
@RocknRescue with regard to build quality and appearance:
- These are very, very nice mudflaps and in my opinion well-worth the price
- My Service Manager couldn't believe how heavy they were compared to the RokBloxz on his just installed on his Raptor
- My Service Manager was however worried about the negative impact their weight would have on my fuel economy (= he was bustin'-my-chops)
Mine will be dealer-installed next Tuesday or Wednesday = looking forward to getting them installed
Thanks again to
@kdjasper and
@RocknRescue for their strong recommendation for my next F150 upgrade!