How To Install Overfenders 240sx

Transform Your 240sx: A Comprehensive Guide to Installing Overfenders

The Nissan 240sx, a beloved platform for drifting, track days, and spirited street driving, is often customized to enhance its performance and aesthetics. One popular modification is the installation of overfenders. Overfenders provide additional wheel well clearance, allowing for wider wheels and tires, aggressive stances, and improved grip. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process for installing overfenders on your 240sx, ensuring a professional and satisfying result.

Why Install Overfenders on Your 240sx?

Before diving into the installation process, let's understand the benefits of overfenders:

Aggressive Stance: Overfenders dramatically alter the appearance of your 240sx, giving it a wider, more aggressive look.
Wider Wheels and Tires: The primary reason for installing overfenders is to accommodate wider wheels and tires. This allows for increased grip and improved handling, particularly during drifting or track use.
Improved Handling: Wider tires offer a larger contact patch with the road, resulting in better traction and enhanced handling characteristics.
Aesthetic Enhancement: Overfenders can significantly enhance the overall look of your 240sx, giving it a more custom and personalized appearance.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Gathering the necessary tools and materials beforehand will streamline the installation process. Here's a comprehensive list:

Overfenders: Choose a set of overfenders specifically designed for your 240sx (S13 or S14). Ensure they are of good quality and made from durable material like fiberglass or polyurethane.
Measuring Tape: Essential for accurate measurements and alignment.
Marker or Pen: For marking cut lines and reference points.
Cutting Tools: Angle grinder with cutting disc, jigsaw, or reciprocating saw (choose the tool you're most comfortable with).
Grinding Tools: Angle grinder with grinding disc or flap disc, file, or sanding block to smooth rough edges.
Drill and Drill Bits: For creating mounting holes. A stepped drill bit is highly recommended.
Rivets or Fasteners: Use rivets, self-tapping screws, or bolts with nuts and washers to secure the overfenders. Choose hardware appropriate for the material of your overfenders and the body of your 240sx.
Body Filler (Optional): For smoothing out imperfections and blending the overfenders with the body.
Sandpaper: Various grits (80, 120, 220, 400) for preparing the surface for body filler and paint.
Primer: To create a smooth surface for paint adhesion.
Paint: Match the paint color to your 240sx or choose a contrasting color for a custom look.
Clear Coat: To protect the paint and add shine.
Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
Gloves: Protect your hands.
Dust Mask or Respirator: Protect your lungs from dust and fumes.
Jack and Jack Stands: To safely lift and support your vehicle.
Wheel Chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
Heat Gun (Optional): Can be helpful for molding overfenders to the body contours.
Clamps: To hold the overfenders in place while marking and drilling.
Sealant: To prevent water and debris from entering the fender wells.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful overfender installation:

Preparation:
- Park your 240sx on a level surface.
- Engage the parking brake and chock the rear wheels.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels you'll be working on.
- Jack up the vehicle and securely support it with jack stands.
- Remove the wheels.
- Thoroughly clean the existing fenders, removing any dirt, grease, or rust.
Test Fitting and Marking:
- Carefully position the overfender against the existing fender.
- Use clamps to hold it in place.
- Adjust the overfender until you achieve the desired fit and alignment. Pay close attention to the gaps between the overfender and the body.
- Use a marker or pen to trace the outline of the overfender onto the existing fender. This line will indicate where you need to cut. Double-check your measurements before cutting!
Cutting the Existing Fenders:
- This is a crucial step that requires patience and precision.
- Using your chosen cutting tool (angle grinder, jigsaw, or reciprocating saw), carefully cut along the marked line. Safety glasses are essential!
- Cut slowly and steadily, avoiding any unnecessary damage to the surrounding areas.
- It's better to cut slightly inside the line initially, allowing for fine-tuning later.
- Remove any sharp edges or burrs with a grinding disc or file.
Important Note: Cutting metal can generate sparks and heat. Be sure to have a fire extinguisher nearby and take precautions to protect yourself and your vehicle.
Test Fitting Again:
- After cutting, test fit the overfender again to ensure it sits properly.
- Make any necessary adjustments by trimming or grinding the cut edges.
- Repeat this process until you are satisfied with the fit.
Preparing for Mounting:
- Once the overfender fits correctly, determine the best method for mounting it. Options include rivets, self-tapping screws, or bolts with nuts and washers.
- Mark the locations for the mounting holes on both the overfender and the existing fender.
- Ensure that the mounting points are structurally sound and will provide a secure attachment.
Drilling Mounting Holes:
- Using a drill and appropriate drill bit, carefully drill the mounting holes through both the overfender and the existing fender.
- A stepped drill bit is recommended to create clean and accurate holes.
- Deburr the holes after drilling.
Securing the Overfender:
- Attach the overfender to the existing fender using your chosen mounting hardware (rivets, self-tapping screws, or bolts with nuts and washers).
- Ensure that the overfender is securely fastened and that all mounting points are tight.
- For rivets, use a rivet gun to set them properly.
- For bolts, use washers to distribute the load and prevent damage.
Bodywork (Optional):
- If you desire a seamless look, you can use body filler to blend the overfender with the existing body.
- Apply the body filler in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry completely before sanding.
- Sand the filler smooth, gradually increasing the grit of the sandpaper.
- Pay attention to the contours and ensure a smooth transition between the overfender and the body.
Priming and Painting:
- Clean the entire surface to be painted.
- Apply several thin coats of primer, allowing each coat to dry completely.
- Sand the primer smooth with fine-grit sandpaper (400 grit).
- Apply several thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely.
- Apply several thin coats of clear coat to protect the paint and add shine.
- Allow the paint and clear coat to cure completely before handling.
Sealing and Finishing:
- Apply a sealant around the edges of the overfender to prevent water and debris from entering the fender wells.
- Reinstall the wheels.
- Lower the vehicle back to the ground.
- Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.
- Inspect your work and make any final adjustments.

Tips for a Successful Installation

Here are some additional tips to ensure a successful overfender installation:

Take Your Time: Rushing the process can lead to mistakes and a poor-quality result.
Measure Twice, Cut Once: Accurate measurements are crucial for a proper fit.
Use the Right Tools: Using the correct tools will make the job easier and safer.
Wear Safety Gear: Protect yourself with safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help: If you're unsure about any step, don't hesitate to ask a friend or professional for assistance.
Practice on Scrap Material: If you're new to cutting or bodywork, practice on scrap metal or plastic before working on your 240sx.
Consider Professional Installation: If you're not comfortable performing the installation yourself, consider hiring a professional body shop.

Choosing the Right Overfenders

The market offers various overfender options for the 240sx. Consider these factors when making your selection:

Material: Fiberglass is a common and affordable option, but it can be brittle. Polyurethane is more flexible and durable, but it's also more expensive.
Fitment: Ensure that the overfenders are specifically designed for your 240sx (S13 or S14) and that they have a reputation for good fitment.
Style: Choose a style that complements the overall look of your 240sx.
Quality: Opt for overfenders from a reputable manufacturer to ensure quality and durability.
Price: Balance your budget with the desired features and quality.

Conclusion

Installing overfenders on your 240sx can dramatically enhance its appearance and performance. By following this comprehensive guide and taking your time, you can achieve a professional and satisfying result. Remember to prioritize safety and use the correct tools and materials. With careful planning and execution, you can transform your 240sx into a head-turning machine.