Let’s Dive into Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal
RV fender skirts; they’re not the sexiest part of your rig, but they’re absolutely essential. They protect your RV from road debris and water, preventing costly damage. The Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal promises to be a durable and aesthetically pleasing replacement, fitting a wide range of Forest River brands. I was recently tasked with restoring a neglected Cardinal, and the existing fender skirt was cracked and faded, making the whole RV look tired.
My initial impression upon receiving the Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal was positive. The textured ABS plastic felt substantial, and the polar white color was a clean, classic look. I’d considered a cheaper, universal skirt, but the promise of a direct fit for the Cardinal and other Forest River models swayed me towards the Icon brand.
I compared it to a similar, but unbranded, fender skirt available online. While the generic option was significantly cheaper, the material felt flimsy. I also looked at an aluminum option, but I worried about potential corrosion. The Icon seemed to strike the right balance between durability, fit, and cost, providing peace of mind.
I was cautiously optimistic about the Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal. My experience with aftermarket RV parts has been hit-or-miss, but the Icon‘s build quality gave me hope for a successful restoration. Let’s see if it lives up to its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience involved removing the old, dilapidated fender skirt and installing the new Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal. This took place in my driveway, under relatively pleasant, dry conditions. The removal of the old skirt was the biggest challenge; years of sun exposure had made it brittle and the screws were seized.
Installation of the Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal itself was straightforward. The pre-drilled holes lined up perfectly with the existing mounting points on the Cardinal, a testament to Icon’s focus on direct fit. No extra drilling or modifications were required.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and a few thousand miles, including a trip through some unexpected gravel roads, the Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal is holding up admirably. The textured finish has proven resistant to scratches and road grime. Washing is simple, requiring only soap and water.
There are no signs of cracking or fading despite prolonged sun exposure. The Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal noticeably outperforms the original skirt in terms of impact resistance. I had a similar incident with road debris on my previous trailer, and the generic fender skirt cracked immediately; this Icon skirt shrugged it off.
Breaking Down the Features of Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal
Specifications
- Dimensions: 68-3/8″ x 13-7/8″. This is a critical measurement for ensuring a proper fit.
- Material: Durable High-Impact ABS Plastic. This provides a balance between weight, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
- Finish: Textured. The textured finish helps hide minor scratches and resists fading from UV exposure.
- Color: Polar White. A common and versatile color that matches many RVs.
- Compatibility: Forest River Cardinal, Cedar Creek, Cherokee, Rockwood, Salem, Sierra, Wildcat, Wildwood, Blue Ridge. This wide compatibility makes it a versatile replacement option.
The dimensions are critical, as a fender skirt that’s even slightly off will be difficult, if not impossible, to install correctly. The ABS plastic construction is important for durability; cheaper plastics become brittle and crack easily. The textured finish is a practical feature, helping to maintain the skirt’s appearance over time.
Performance & Functionality
The Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal performs its primary function exceptionally well: protecting the RV from road debris. It’s tough enough to withstand impacts from rocks and other flying objects. The Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal is easy to install, thanks to its precise dimensions and pre-drilled holes.
The only improvement I would suggest is a slightly thicker plastic, especially in high-stress areas near the mounting points. Even so, the existing thickness is more than adequate for typical use. The Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal exceeded my expectations in terms of fit and durability, making it a worthwhile upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal is impressive. The ABS plastic is consistently thick throughout the skirt, with no thin or weak spots. It’s lightweight, making it easy to handle during installation.
The design is simple and functional, blending seamlessly with the RV’s overall aesthetic. The textured surface is aesthetically pleasing and also adds a layer of protection against scuffs and scratches. There is virtually no learning curve; anyone with basic DIY skills can install this fender skirt.
Durability & Maintenance
The Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal is designed for long-term use. The ABS plastic is resistant to UV degradation, preventing it from becoming brittle and cracking over time. Maintenance is minimal; simply wash it with soap and water as needed.
Minor scratches can be easily buffed out with a plastic polish. The Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal appears to be a long-lasting and reliable replacement option. This means fewer replacements and increased protection of your RV.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal does not come with any additional accessories. It is a direct replacement part designed to fit existing mounting points. Customization options are limited to painting or applying decals.
However, the polar white color provides a neutral base for personalization. It is compatible with standard RV sealants and adhesives, allowing for a secure and weather-tight installation. The absence of included accessories is not a major drawback, as most RV owners will already have the necessary tools and hardware.
Pros and Cons of Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal
Pros
- Precise Fit: Designed specifically for Forest River brands, ensuring easy installation.
- Durable ABS Plastic: Provides excellent impact resistance and long-term durability.
- Textured Finish: Hides scratches and resists fading from UV exposure.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple to clean with soap and water.
- Improved Aesthetics: Instantly enhances the appearance of your RV.
Cons
- Price: Slightly more expensive than generic fender skirt options.
- Limited Customization: Only available in polar white, requiring painting for other colors.
Who Should Buy Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal?
The Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal is perfect for RV owners of Forest River brands (Cardinal, Cedar Creek, Cherokee, Rockwood, Salem, Sierra, Wildcat, Wildwood, and Blue Ridge) who need to replace a damaged or faded fender skirt. It’s also a great choice for those restoring older RVs and want a reliable, direct-fit replacement. DIY enthusiasts who appreciate easy installation and quality materials will also find this product appealing.
If you’re simply looking for the cheapest possible fender skirt, regardless of fit or durability, you should skip this product. Those who require a specific color other than polar white without being willing to paint it should also consider other options. The only must-have accessories are a good sealant and appropriate screws for installation.
Conclusion on Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal
The Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal is a well-designed and durable replacement part that offers a significant improvement over generic alternatives. The price is justified by the precise fit, high-quality materials, and long-term reliability. I am personally very happy with the purchase and the difference it made on our Cardinal.
I would highly recommend the Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal to anyone looking to restore or repair their Forest River RV. Don’t let a cracked or faded fender skirt detract from your RV’s appearance and protection. Upgrade to the Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs785 For Forest River Cardinal and hit the road with confidence!