JL-JLU Crawler Ultimate Clearance Highline Rear Flare

BEHIND THE DESIGN

After completing the design and development of the Highline front flare it was time to attack the rear. We began by reviewing the CAD files and our scans of both the JL (2 door) and JLU (4 door) to verify that we could offer a single flare for both body styles. Design of the rear flare was a bit less complicated than the front but most of our key fitment points still had to be achieved. Again, the debris buildup between the flare and the body, a seamless transition from the body mounting surface to the flare, the ability to switch easily from our standard flares and of course as much additional clearance as possible were some of the items that carried over along with making sure to avoid any interference with the fuel filler were our key factors.

Since the front height was set we knew the line we needed to follow in the rear. However, with the limited room between the rear door and the flare on the 4 door we were unable to open the wheel well to the front so we focused on bringing the flare up and adding as much additional clearance to the rear without impeding on the gas filler location. We stayed tucked inside the recessed area where the factory flare sits on the front, then jogged out to get above the recess as the flare rounds over to the rear. We followed the body as far back as we could but curved it down just in time to clear the gas filler. Once again we were faced with the same flare to body transition and wanted to make it match the front so we used the transition plate eliminating the skeleton structure others have used which covers the body allowing customers to finish the flares in whatever color they prefer without the concern of the body color showing through.

After manufacturing the number of flares that we have and knowing that our alignment and fitment was spot on we decided that using a modified version of our existing base plate would be the best foundation to build the Highline flare. By maintaining all of the existing flare mounting holes that we use on our standard flares existing customers are now able to remove the standard flare and bolt on the Highline flare without drilling additional holes. The baseplate does allow for some additional trimming of the body for additional clearance should the customer choose to do so.

As with the front flares the back edge that touches the body was as critical as the overall aesthetics and strength. The transition from inside the flare recess to the body did take a bit of time to dial in but relying on the knowledge we gained from the fronts definitely helped make these come together easier. As with all manufacturing we do have to build in a tolerance for not only Jeep to Jeep but also the differences in the body from the left to right side on the same Jeep. Once the line was set we added just enough space for a strip of cushioning foam that allows for a seamless fit between the body and the flare eliminating any chance of dirt building up between the two.

As with all Nemesis products we strive to identify and solve not only the main purpose of a part but look at what else we can do to provide as much value to our customers as possible with our parts. There are many choices available but when you compare the fit, finish and complexity of a Nemesis product you will never be disappointed in your investment. 

PRODUCT COMPATIBILITY

• Currently we are unaware of any compatibility issues with this product
• If you have questions about fitment with your specific build please contact us at [email protected]

SPECIALTY TOOLS REQUIRED TO COMPLETE THE INSTALLATION

• Nutsert tool with a ¼” - 20 mandrel (Available under the tools section of the website) 
• “W” size drill bit (Available under the tools section of the website)

PRODUCT NOTES

• See – The MORE INFORMATION Tab – located above, for detailed product specifications
• See – The INSTALL INSTRUCTION DOWNLOAD tab – located above, to download detailed instructions for this product