Gang -

I'm gearing up to install mud flaps front & rear) on our 2004 V70. My confidence in the instructions for the installation of the front units was shaken when step 1 told me to "remove the REAR wheels"! I didn't feel any better when then next line told me to drill out 4 rivets - there are only 3. Maybe another Ford cost cutting idea? The mud flap does have 4 holes but I've only got 3 rivets to drill out.

Yes, there is a question here. The front units have a small piece (4" long) of a clear tape (sticky on one side). I think that it is supposed to be applied to the sheet metal where the top rear edge of the mud flap contacts the body. Do I have this correct?

I'm curious as to its function. Does it serve as to prevent the mud flap from actually contacting the paint? Should just a small portion of this stone guard material be visible after the mud flaps are installed?

Any clarification on this and any tips (and encouragement!) would be appreciated. I haven't seen my pop rivet tool in years - I think it's gone! I read about using screws in other threads but I think I'll start with the rivets.

Thanks in advance.

BobC
Dover, MA