Gravel shield mounting problem

[howzzzit]

Having a seizure trying to mount new gravel shields. I purchased new gravel shields some time ago. I installed my original brackets per specs (I hope). Anyway, all the pictures I see of the shields have the holes directly across from each other. I can't line mine up with the bracket holes. Attached is the page from the assembly manual for brackets and shields. In the picture the shield holes seem to have an offset just like I'm running into. Am I missing something?

[samkost]

I had the same issue with the new gravel guard mounting holes not lining up to my O.E. sport bumper brackets.
Typical aftermarket part problem.
I decided to modify and drill out/elongate the new gravel guard mounting holes and not modify the O.E. brackets.
I used some smaller stainless bolts, nuts and washer hardware to cover the elongated holes.
If I remember right, I kept the gravel guards and bumper bracket hardware loose when I went to install and align the chrome sport bumper.
Hope this helps, good luck.

[howzzzit]

Thanks Sam. I just measured the mounting hole in the top of the left angled rear bracket. It's a good 3/4 inch off from the right side. Maybe the outside brackets aren't originals. Been many years and I don't remember buying any brackets. I find the right side is correctly drilled. Sorry should have checked sooner before posting. Might help somebody if they read this. At least the new hole in the bracket will be covered by the shield. Thanks again.

[samkost]

Yeah, I avoided drilling my O.E. brackets.
3/4 of an inch off is not good!
Modifying these aftermarket parts is all too common for us restoring our trucks.
Again, good luck

[Accelo]

If the gravel guards are painted and ready to go I would drill the brackets to match the guards. The holes can be easily modified and/or welded up at a later date. Not true of the thin guard material. BTW I had the same issue with mine.

[howzzzit]

Accelo, the guards aren't painted. I'm just installing the bumpers to drive temporarily until I find a paint shop. I did drill another hole in the angle bracket. It's underneath the shield so it won't be seen. I was surprised how fast a drill bit went through the cheap steel. Of all the off shore metal parts I've used with the exception of the bed floor I've had to elongate holes, make corrections, and etc.. I wonder how many people bought a left hand bracket from the same run with the wrong hole position. Thanks for the reply.

[1970cstblazer]

Since GM sold only one style of these (LH) to cover both sides, with the notation in the parts book to drill the proper holes on the gravel shield for mounting on the RH side, I purchased an aftermarket RH side shield that had the proper holes already punched. It fit beautifully.