The Plastic Rim: What's In A Name?

what do you call the plastic rim

The plastic rim on a car, often referred to as a Flare Pad, is used to seal the gap between the car body and the wheel. It is also known as a fender flare or fender moulding/trim, and it helps to prevent rock chips to the area from the tires. On a bicycle, the plastic rim is called a dork disk or dork disc, and it is used to prevent the chain from getting into the spokes.

Characteristics Values
Name Flare, Flare Pad, Fender Flare, Fender Moulding/Trim, Dork Disk, Dork Disc
Purpose Prevent rock chips to the area from the tires, seal the gap between the car body and the wheel, prevent the chain from going between the gears and the wheel
Cost $10-20
Ease of replacement Easy

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Flare pad

A flare pad, also known as a fender flare, is a type of plastic covering that surrounds the metal around tires. It is typically found on cars and other vehicles to prevent rock chips and other debris from damaging the paint and causing rust.

Fender flares are designed to be both functional and aesthetic, adding a stylish touch to vehicles while also providing protection from the elements. They are often made of rugged, black plastic and can be bolted or riveted onto the vehicle.

The name "flare pad" comes from the distinctive flared shape of the covering, which extends outward from the tire. This design not only adds to the overall appearance of the vehicle but also provides extra coverage to protect the tires and the body of the car.

Fender flare pads are available for a variety of car makes and models, including Toyota, Ford, Chevy Silverado, and Dodge Ram. They typically come in sets of four and can be purchased as a DIY kit or from automotive retailers.

In some places, such as New Zealand, it is a legal requirement to have proper fender flares or mudguard extensions on your vehicle to prevent the tires from extending outside the body of the car. This ensures that rocks and other debris are not kicked up by the tires, which could potentially cause damage to other vehicles or pedestrians.

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Fender flare

A fender flare, also known as a fender moulding or trim, is a type of vehicle accessory that provides protection and styling to the vehicle's fenders or wheel wells. It is a plastic covering that extends outwards from the metal surrounding the tires.

Additionally, fender flares ensure legality on the road. Many states have tire coverage laws that specify the distance that tires can legally protrude from fenders. By installing fender flares, vehicle owners can ensure that their tires comply with these regulations and avoid citations.

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Fender moulding/trim

It is important to replace old or damaged fender moulding/trim with quality replacements to maintain the vehicle's protection and aesthetics. Fender wheel arch trim protects and frames the wheel wells, while fender mouldings provide an additional layer of protection by guarding the wheel well openings against damage. Reputable restoration experts offer factory-original restorations that ensure the vehicle's exterior is well-maintained and protected.

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Dork disk/disc

A dork disk or disc is a plastic disk attached to the rear wheel of a bicycle. It is also known as a "pie plate" due to its resemblance to an upturned pie tin.

Dork disks are shipped with many new bicycles, although they are not always factory-installed. They are included as a safety measure for new riders, as they can prevent the chain from slipping into the spokes and causing damage. This is particularly useful if the rider does not know how to set up a derailleur correctly or maintain their bicycle.

However, dork disks have been criticised for their appearance and the fact that they add unnecessary weight to the bicycle, potentially impacting speed and performance. Some cyclists view them as a sign that the rider cannot maintain their bicycle properly. For these reasons, many experienced riders choose to remove the dork disk, especially if they are confident in their ability to maintain their bicycle and minimise the risk of the chain slipping.

In some places, such as Canada, bicycles are legally required to come with a dork disk for safety reasons. This may also be the case in other regions.

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Mudguard extension moulding

In New Zealand, for instance, it is a requirement to have mudguard extension moulding to obtain a warrant of fitness for your vehicle. This is because tyres must be contained within the vehicle's boundaries. This moulding can be crafted from plastic garden edging and attached with screws.

The mudguard extension moulding is a practical addition to any vehicle, serving as a protective barrier against various forms of road debris. Its presence helps to maintain the vehicle's paintwork and overall aesthetic appeal while also inhibiting the formation of rust.

While mudguard extension moulding is a functional aspect, some individuals have differing opinions on its aesthetic value. Some view the black plastic bolt-on extensions as a disfigurement to the vehicle's design, while others appreciate the aesthetic when executed properly, such as when moulded into the fender or quarter panel.

In addition to the mudguard extension moulding, there are other plastic components associated with vehicle wheels. One such component is the flare pad, a rubber part that seals the gap between the car body and the plastic over-the-wheel section. This part can be replaced inexpensively, typically costing around $15 to $20.

Frequently asked questions

It is called a flare pad, trim, or weather stripping.

It is called a dork disk or dork disc.

Flare pads seal the gap between the car body and the plastic over-the-wheel part.

A dork disk prevents the bicycle chain from going into the spokes.

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