How much wheel/tire clearance should I leave when shaping the fender well?
Documented on the Ford Mustang build
Published February 26, 2026
Leave at least 10–12 mm (around 3/8" to 1/2") of static clearance between the tire and the inner lip with suspension at full droop; more is safer if you expect suspension travel or aggressive steering/alignment changes.
Documented In This Build
Related Knowledge
How long does a project like this typically take?Do I have to weld the new wheelwell panels, or can I bolt or rivet them?Will cutting and welding the inner fender cause rust problems?Do I need any special tools to make custom fender wells?How do I prevent warping when welding thin sheet metal?What wheel/tire sizes can this modification accommodate?How much extra tire/wheel clearance can I expect?How difficult is this for someone with limited metalworking experience?
Related Parts
18-gauge mild steel sheet
$60
Weld-through primer
Eastwood$25
Epoxy primer (quart)
$40
Body filler (Bondo)
Bondo$15
Seam sealer
3M$12
Plastic fender liner / trim material
$30
Pop rivets / rivet nuts
$8
Grinder / flap discs / cutoff wheels (consumables)
$20
Related Tools
Sheet metal hammer and dolly set
MIG welderLincoln Electric
Angle grinder with cutoff wheelMilwaukee
Flap disc / sanding discs
Drill with spot-weld cutter
Clamps / Clecos
Tape measure and marking tools
Paint gun / spray cans
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