Rear mud flaps

I have seen lots of posts needing to remove front mud flaps to clear tires. Also seen them on the rear flaps. I know some states require the flaps and it's courteous to drivers behind you and protects the paint.

While off road last weekend I almost ripped one of the rear flaps off going over a rock. I know many are hitting harder trails than me. What am I missing how the rear flaps are not a limiting factor for others?

 

The laws that require mudflaps are for dually vehicles and commercial vehicles. Your 4Runner is gonna be okay with out 'em.

 

I am ok in my state but some do require them for light trucks. If it's enforced seems sporadic.

CA is 1 example they are required.

https://www.liftlaws.com/

 

Considering how much people complain about the vulnerability of 4R paint, I'd think more people would keep some kind of mudflaps for whatever rock protection they give.

 

Yes rock protection I understand. Have also heard of people putting a clear film on paint. What I don't understand is how others are not catching them on obstacles.

 

When I got my rear bumper I asked the shop owner about this. His wife is CHP and said she never pulled someone over for it. It was more if a tack on if you drove like an asshole.

 

I think they do get caught, but unless you rip them off, I don’t think they show damage nearly as much as the plastic covers.

 

The rear flap doesn't extend that much from the plastic bumper cover, so a rock that can rip the flap off will likely also rip the bumper cover. If you hit harder trails, upgrade to a steel bumper, then you can drill holes on the front face of the bumper and mount Rokblokz or Husky trim-yourself Longjohn flaps.

Example of how I mounted Rokblokz flaps on my Tacoma, this was 3 seasons ago when I had small 32" tires:

 

If you’re mud flaps are limiting your off road ability, then it may be time to consider a Jeep with 35’s.

 

I’ve noticed the same. Mine got stuffed into soft mud, then bent forward and upwards into the wheel well, as I got winched backwards out of the hole. Surprisingly they look no worse for wear.