Removed fender flares

I just removed my fender flares to redo the paint on them but I kind of like it without them, but the holes where the clips were aren't a good look. Has anyone ever removed their fender flares and what did you do about the holes on the quarter panels and bumper?

 

You should post a picture. I might consider taking mine off also.

 

My bad I forgot pics. Here are some of without fenders. Those ugly holes

 

@joshperdue

 

You don't have many options... but:

1. Fill the holes (bondo, sanding, paint, etc.)
2. Fill the holes with hardware (screws, bolts, washer, etc.)
3. Fill the holes with painted plastic fender clips

There are threads on TW somewhere describing the process I believe.

 

Look at this thread I thought it looked good.

http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2n...ling-holes-fenders-after-removing-flares.html

 

The thread above is mine. I also like the look of our trucks without the flares. Using the factory clips to fill the holes is a little time consuming, but worth the effort.

The holes in the bumper are a whole other animal due to their size. If you ditch your factory bumper and go for a steel replacement you won't have to worry about them.

 

The countersunk stainless hardware option:

 

you cant use bondo to fill the holes. would need to weld them closed, to really be strong and permanent.

 

If you fill those holes with body filler (bondo) It's only a matter of time before they will crack. If it's steel, you have to weld. If it's fiberglass, you have to use fiberglass. For plastic, I'd recommend a two-part epoxy, vette panel adhesive, plastic weld, etc.

 

pm me your setup?

 

these are the factory clips from the back of the fenders? Did you paint them?

 

oops my bad! Thanks!