Quote:
Originally Posted by Raptor
They are to satisfy ADR requirements wrt wheel coverage (as you well know).
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Raptor is 100% correct.
It was added to satisfy ADR regulations after a design oversight by FoMoCo Australia. You will find these "black plastic things" on
ALL AU's (AU1, AU2 and AU3) fitted with the 17" (or 18") Tickford wheels and suspension (either optioned or standard fitment) and 235 wide tyres. Wasn't just a AU2/AU3 thing either. AU1 Tickford cars such as the XR's and T-Series had them. Even a AU1 Forte would have them if it was optioned up with 17" Tickford wheels and suspension.
The quick and simple explanation is, when the 17" or 18" wheels with 235 tyres were fitted to the AU, the front edge of the wheel and tyre were slightly visible from a direct top view, making the vehicle uncompliant to ADR's. A quick solution was designed and implemented by using these "plastic thingy's".
Wonder how many AU's that came factory fitted with 17"/18" wheels and 235 wide tyres still have them on? There would be many AU's out there that have had them come off, or removed by now. Making them non-compliant to ADR's.
Again, not a rain deflector, nothing to do with dust, aero, or slicing through the air, etc. The AU was a simple car. Please don't overcomplicate it.
edit: Read through this thread from the start.... oh boy....
