Merritt Product Guide – Heavy Duty Fenders

When it comes to protecting your semi-truck or trailer from road debris, maintaining a professional look, and ensuring the longevity of your equipment, quality semi truck fenders are a must. Merritt Products has a strong reputation in the trucking industry for durable and dependable products, and their fenders are no exception. In this guide, we’ll explore four top fender options from Merritt, discuss how to choose the right model for your needs, and outline the steps to order and install them.

Comparing Merritt Fender Models

Aluminum & Stainless Rolled Fender

• Material: Available in aluminum or stainless steel
• Key Features:
  • Lightweight yet strong due to the rolled design
  • Sleek and polished look
  • Corrosion-resistant properties
• Ideal For:
  • Fleets and owner-operators seeking a balance of weight savings, style, and durability
  • Trucks operating in regions with moderate road conditions

View Aluminum & Stainless Rolled Fender »

Aluminum Super Duty Fender

• Material: Heavy-gauge aluminum
• Key Features:
  • Designed to withstand the toughest road conditions
  • Reinforced build for high-impact scenarios
  • Excellent corrosion resistance
• Ideal For:
  • Operators hauling heavy loads or traveling on rough roads
  • Drivers who prioritize long-term durability and strength

View Aluminum Super Duty Fender »

Deep Drop Wrap Fenders

• Material: Typically offered in heavy-duty aluminum
• Key Features:
  • Extended coverage over the tire for enhanced debris containment
  • Wrap-around design offers a sleek look and added protection
  • Helps keep your truck cleaner and more aerodynamic
• Ideal For:
  • Trucks frequently traveling in muddy, wet, or debris-heavy environments
  • Operators looking to minimize spray and road grime on trailers and other vehicles

View Deep Drop Wrap Fenders »

Poly Pro Fenders

• Material: Durable polymer
• Key Features:
  • Lightweight and flexible
  • Resistant to dents and cracks
  • Great for preventing corrosion in harsh climates
• Ideal For:
  • Budget-conscious operators who still want durability
  • Fleets that need an easy-to-install, low-maintenance solution
  • Trucks in regions with extreme weather conditions, as polymer resists salt and chemicals

View Poly Pro Fenders »

How to Select the Right Fender

Determine Your Operating Conditions

Consider the environment and weather you frequently encounter. If your routes involve harsh climates, heavy debris, or off-road terrains, a super-duty or deep drop wrap fender might be best. If you operate in moderate conditions and value weight savings and polished looks, an aluminum or stainless rolled fender could be the perfect match.

Assess Weight vs. Durability

• If weight is a major concern—perhaps to maximize payload—aluminum or poly fenders are a good choice.
• If you prioritize heavy-duty endurance, stainless steel or super-duty aluminum fenders can handle high impacts and rough roads.

Match Your Style and Budget

• Rolled aluminum or stainless fenders add a sleek, professional finish but can be pricier.
• Poly options tend to be more cost-effective and still highly functional.
• Deep drop wrap fenders often strike a balance between stylish coverage and robust performance.

Consider Long-Term Maintenance

• Stainless and aluminum fenders require minimal upkeep but will need occasional polishing to maintain their shine.
• Poly fenders won’t rust and are straightforward to clean, making them low maintenance.
• Deeper wraps reduce splatter and keep your rig cleaner overall, potentially cutting down on the time you spend scrubbing off road grime.

How to Order from Merritt

1. Measure Your Truck/Trailer
   Before placing an order, confirm the dimensions you need—measure the diameter of your tire setup, the axle spacing, and how much coverage you desire. Most Merritt fenders come in multiple sizes or can be adapted with brackets to fit your specific configuration.
   
2. Choose the Correct Brackets and Mounting Hardware
   In addition to your fender selection, ensure you have the right mounting bracket kit. Different fenders may require specialized brackets for proper fitment and optimal performance.
   
3. Place Your Order
   
   Online: Visit our Dealer Locator to find an online retailer.
   
   By Phone or Dealer: If you have detailed queries or need personalized assistance, contact Merritt or an authorized dealer. They can guide you through specific part numbers and shipping options.

4. Review Shipping and Handling
   Fenders are often bulky. Make sure you’re aware of shipping options, costs, and any special handling requirements.

Installation Tips

Gather Your Tools and Hardware

You’ll typically need:

• Socket set/wrenches
• Drill (if new holes are required)
• Measuring tape
• Torque wrench for final tightening
• The recommended brackets and hardware kit from Merritt

Pre-Fit and Align

• Before fully securing, place the fender over the tire to check alignment and clearance.
• Ensure you have equal spacing on both sides and that the fender does not rub against the tire at any point.

Secure the Brackets

• Attach the brackets to the frame or the designated mounting points.
• Use anti-seize or thread-lock compound on bolts to prevent loosening from road vibrations.
• Verify that each bracket lines up correctly with the fender’s pre-drilled holes (if applicable).

Mount the Fender

• Carefully position the fender on the bracket.
• If your kit requires drilling additional holes, mark and drill them now.
• Attach with the included hardware, following the recommended torque specifications.

Final Inspection

• Double-check all bolts and nuts for proper tightness.
• Spin the tire (if possible) to confirm there are no clearance issues.
• Inspect from all angles to ensure a consistent, level appearance.

Whether you’re looking for a high-polish aluminum finish, a rugged super-duty solution, extended coverage with deep drop wrap, or a versatile poly fender, Merritt has a product to meet your needs. By considering your operating conditions, budget, and style preferences—and by following the correct ordering and installation steps—you’ll enjoy a durable, attractive fender setup that protects your rig and keeps it looking its best.

Ready to upgrade or replace your fenders? Explore Merritt’s lineup and Contact Us for any additional guidance or Order Products Online if you know what you need! With the right fender choice and proper installation, you’ll be ready to hit the road confidently and in style.