Custom Fenders for an older B Tractor?

[MPope03]

I recently bought a B8200D and the rear fenders are rusted through in several places. I've looked around the internet for replacements, but what I have found isn't much better than what I have, and the prices are astronomical. So, I had this thought of removing my fenders and using them to make an outline on a sheet of steel for the basic inside fender shape, then cutting it all out with the plasma. I was thinking that I could probably use a little thicker steel, and make some some other modifications, like a wider fender that would actually cover the entire width of the tire, a step, LED light brackets, a tool-box, better placed assist handles, etc. However, It would be more square than the original Kubota equipment. I don't have the equipment to make the pretty curves, so angles are the best I can do. Has anyone attempted something like this that could offer some advice? - Such as: Not worth it.... or Best thing I ever did?

Thanks,
Mike

 

[olthumpa]

I would be interested also. My fenders are looking a little long in the tooth and at $275 each, it is either find another way or use it until they fall off then try something.

 

[Caver50bmg]

With a plasma cutter and a good welder id go for it. Ive always liked the john deer headlights in the front of the fenders. Seems like a really good place for them. Toolbox? Why in the world dont all tractors come standard with them. Bugs the crap out of me. Im in the process of making one for my b2150

 

[Tooljunkie]

Will take time, if you have a vision, go with it. Thicker the metal, harder to work. 14 guage shaped correctly and pounded around a mold any shape can be made. I have used duct tape to shape a rounded piece. Two layers in opposite directions to cover entire panel. Peel tape off carefully and slit tape to lay flat. Stick to sheet metal and trace out. This will get you close to original shape. But requires body filler.

Another way is to build a template from heavy paper to get size/shape you want.
Or a form of sorts made from round rod,then skin it afterwards.

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Or you could call West Kentucky Tractor parts and see if they have a good used set.
http://wkytpstore.com/

 

[MPope03]

Thanks, I'll give Kentucky tractor parts a call. I do still like the idea of building the custom fenders, but if I can get them for a good price it wouldn't make sense to spend the time making new ones. Anyway, the wife has informed me that I can only one tractor dis-assembled at a time, and I have to restore her Cub Cadet first since it is already apart..... so I got some time to look around for another set.....

 

[40Farmall]

I may call as well as my fenders have bad corrosion at the top. If they don't my eventual plan is to weld ammo boxes into the fender which will mostly take out the rust spots.

 

[coachgeo]

Something may can be fabricated from Trailer fenders or Tractor Trailer Fenders

http://www.trailerpartsdepot.com/items.asp?Cc=FENDERS

http://www.fleettruckparts.com/Fenders-Rear/Universal-Rear-Fenders