Adding mud flaps to protect pipes....

kjbooe · 10-17-2020, 10:52 AM

Hi friends. I am thinking about adding a “mud flap” type set up, like you see on trucks, to protect the exterior grey and black water tank pipes that are about 18 inches behind the left rear tire.
Suggestions? There is a black bar behind both tires (see enclosed pics) to attach them to..??

**ShrimpBurrito** · 10-17-2020, 12:02 PM

This has been discussed many times here, and I think there has even been a report of someone having such a mud flap who experienced a blow out. If I recall correctly, it was effective an probably reducing the extend of damage, but not preventing it.

My thought on the topic is that if you’re going to put forth the effort, do the best you can do, which means installing a metal guard around the plumbing. I made my own years ago, but the factory very recently came out with one that you can buy pre-formed. Details were recently posted here.

Dave

**Bill** · 10-17-2020, 04:18 PM

Dave is right. Back in 2006 I put on some heavy mud flaps
https://www.trailmanorowners.com/for...ead.php?t=4975

Of course, that was an excellent blowout-prevention measure. After I went to the effort to put them on, I didn't have a blowout on that side for several years. But eventually it happened. While I don't recall the details, I know that the mud flaps failed to protect the plumbing. Needless to say, I was disappointed.
https://www.trailmanorowners.com/for...lap#post107439

Some members who have added rubber mud flaps reported at least partial protection. It all depends on how the tire comes apart, and how the pieces fly.

Because of the spotty results, I agree with Dave. Do it right the first time. Our members have designed a number of metal protective cages (do a Search on "plumbing guard" to find some), and some of them look quite sturdy. In fact, the factory reviewed them and chose one to use as a model for their current one-piece bent-metal cage.

I haven't bought one of the factory add-on units yet, but probably will.

Bill

Shane826 · 10-17-2020, 06:43 PM

Why not just install the factory designed plumbing guard?

**ShrimpBurrito** · 10-17-2020, 09:54 PM

See here for more info: https://www.trailmanorowners.com/for...ad.php?t=20191

Dave

kjbooe · 10-19-2020, 01:17 PM

Thanks for the feedback friends. I called the Trailmanor parts place and ordered the plumbing guard. Mud flaps could retard the debris on minor pebbles and flats but anything above that I am taking a chance that I don’t want to.

Will do it right the first time. The guard should be in Friday. Thanks again.

kjbooe · 10-26-2020, 09:03 AM

Okay! Mission accomplished with the new plumbing guard install. Thanks for the direction and guidance this forum always offers.

Jampcourt · 10-26-2020, 02:54 PM

My 2013 2922KS has two outlet pipes, one for the toilet and one for the grey water. Does anyone know if this factory guard will work on the two outlet pipe system? I'll call the factory if no one can answer this for me. I don't think this two pipe system was used for very many TMs. This was close to the end of the production run in Tennessee, before TM moved for the short period in Nebraska.