Fender mounting ??

[dc69383]

Is there a sealant or caulking that needs to be applied to the mounting surface where the fender bolts to the car?

[bill440rt]

Yes.
At the upper edge of the fender where it meets the inner fender apron they applied a bead of seam sealer BEFORE the fender was installed. When the fender was tightened, the sealer oozed out of the upper seam, some cars were more sloppy than others.

This kept water/debris from coming thru that seam. We all know how well that worked, it really prevented rust from forming. 

2 ways to properly accomplish this look:
1) Edge out the fenders & install allowing the sealer to ooze out. Refinish the engine compartment & car with the fenders installed.

2) If refinishing the car in pieces, you'll have to then install the painted fenders, allowing the sealer to ooze out like in the previous method. Then, go back & spot refinish the upper portions of the fender aprons as a separate step.

[dc69383]

Thanks Bill440RT! Iwasn't sure if there was or not, it's been awhile since I took them off. i think i'll use plumbers putty, easier to remove the excess....i'm going for the clean look I used this stuff where ever trim mounts through the body as well to keep out the water

[bill440rt]

No prob. 

Not sure if I'd use "plumber's putty", though. Not familiar with the stuff.
I'd stick with a good automotive seam sealer, like from 3M, Wurth, etc. Run strips of masking tape alongside the gap between the inner edge of the fender & the apron where you don't want to get seam sealer on. Once you tighten the fender, run your finger along the sealer, smoothing it out. You can also use a rag moistened with thinner to further smooth the edges. Then, just peel off the tape.