Unboxing & First Thoughts on the Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs780 For Thor Citation
Having spent over a decade wrestling with a vast array of gear across some pretty demanding environments, from dusty workshop floors to precise lab benches and out in the unforgiving field, I’ve developed a keen eye for what works and what doesn’t. So, when the need arose for a replacement fender skirt for my Thor Citation RV, my attention naturally turned to the Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs780 For Thor Citation. This particular component, while perhaps not the most glamorous piece of equipment, is critical for protecting the undercarriage and maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the vehicle. My previous fender skirt had succumbed to a rather unfortunate encounter with a rogue piece of debris on a less-than-ideal road, leaving a rather unsightly gash. After a quick search, this Icon model stood out as a direct replacement, promising durability and a precise fit. Considering alternatives, I briefly looked at generic ABS sheets but quickly dismissed them; the complexity of RV fender skirts often requires specific contours and mounting points that generics rarely match. Upon receiving the Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs780 For Thor Citation, my initial impression was one of solid, no-nonsense construction. The high-impact ABS plastic felt substantial, and the textured finish immediately suggested it was built to withstand the usual road grime and minor abrasions. It’s a replacement part, so the expectation isn’t for cutting-edge innovation, but for reliable functionality, and this skirt certainly seemed poised to deliver that.
Real-World Testing: Putting Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs780 For Thor Citation to the Test
First Use Experience
The primary test environment for this fender skirt was, of course, its intended application: mounted onto a Thor Citation tandem axle RV. The installation process itself was straightforward, requiring basic tools and a bit of careful alignment to ensure it sat flush against the RV body. I tested it during a weekend trip that involved a mix of highway driving, some gravel roads leading to a campsite, and general exposure to the elements. This included dealing with typical road spray, dust kicked up from the gravel, and a light drizzle. The skirt immediately did its job, deflecting road debris and water away from the tires and the exposed areas beneath the RV. Its fit seemed secure, with no noticeable flapping or vibration even at highway speeds.
One surprise, though a minor one, was the initial rigidity of the ABS. While this is a testament to its durability, it required a bit more force than I anticipated during installation to get the mounting holes to perfectly align. This isn’t necessarily a flaw, but it’s something to be aware of; a second person to help hold it in place while starting screws can be beneficial. Aside from that small point, it was intuitive to install and immediately functional, requiring no break-in period or complex adjustments.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and a few more trips covering a few thousand miles, the Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs780 For Thor Citation has held up admirably. It has endured varying road conditions, from scorching sun that can make plastics brittle to the occasional splash through puddles. There are no visible cracks, stress marks, or signs of premature wear. The textured finish has resisted scratches from typical road debris surprisingly well, maintaining its intended appearance.
Maintenance has been exceptionally simple. A quick wash with soap and water removes accumulated road grime, and it looks as good as new. There’s nothing complex to clean or maintain, which is a major plus for RV components that can often be fiddly. Compared to the original skirt, which eventually cracked after years of service (though not due to any obvious defect), this Icon replacement feels more robust. The ABS material seems to have a good balance of flexibility and rigidity, which is crucial for something exposed to constant vibration and potential impacts. I haven’t encountered any performance drop, and the unit remains firmly in place, fulfilling its protective function without issue.
Breaking Down the Features of Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs780 For Thor Citation
Specifications
The Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs780 For Thor Citation is constructed from high-impact ABS plastic. This material is chosen for its excellent balance of strength, impact resistance, and relative lightness, which is important for vehicle components. The finish is textured, which not only adds a subtle aesthetic appeal but also helps to mask minor scuffs and scratches that are inevitable with this type of product. This specific model is designed for tandem axle configurations, meaning it spans the space between two axles, providing comprehensive coverage.
The manufacturer emphasizes the availability of Measuring Forms on their website. This is a crucial specification for ensuring a proper fit, as RV models, even within the same manufacturer, can have subtle variations in their fender well dimensions. Without these forms, the guesswork in ordering could lead to a poorly fitting skirt. The color is typically Polar White, a common neutral color for RV exteriors.
Performance & Functionality
In its primary role of shielding the RV’s undercarriage from road spray and debris, this fender skirt performs exceptionally well. During my testing, it effectively deflected water and dirt, keeping the exposed areas much cleaner than they would have been without it. The tandem axle design provides ample coverage, significantly reducing the amount of grime that gets flung upwards and backwards. Its primary job is protection, and it does that job reliably, contributing to the overall longevity of components it shields.
The strength of this skirt lies in its straightforward functionality. It’s a barrier, and it acts as a very good barrier. There aren’t many complex functions for a fender skirt to perform, but it excels at its core purpose. The main strength is its durable ABS construction, which promises longevity. A potential weakness, inherent to all fender skirts, is its susceptibility to impact. While the ABS is tough, a significant direct hit from a large rock or sharp debris can still cause damage.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs780 For Thor Citation is purely functional, as expected for an RV part. The molded shape is clearly designed to contour around the wheel wells and chassis of the Thor Citation and similar models. The textured finish is a practical design choice, providing a surface that isn’t overly slippery when wet, though this is less of a concern for a static part like this.
Ergonomically, its “handling” is during installation. As mentioned, the ABS is quite rigid, which is good for durability but requires careful alignment. Once mounted, however, its design is out of sight and out of mind, which is the ideal ergonomic outcome for a component like this. The Polar White color is standard and blends well with most RV aesthetics.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience and the material used, the Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs780 For Thor Citation appears to be built for long-term durability under normal RV use. The high-impact ABS plastic is known to withstand UV exposure and temperature fluctuations relatively well, which are common challenges for exterior RV parts. Assuming no major impacts from road debris, it should last for many years.
Maintenance is as simple as it gets. A periodic rinse with water and a mild soap is all that’s needed to keep it clean and looking its best. There are no moving parts or complex surfaces to worry about. Potential failure points would primarily be from physical impact, leading to cracks or breaks, or prolonged, intense UV exposure over many years that could eventually make the plastic brittle.
Accessories and Customization Options
This fender skirt is a replacement part, and as such, it doesn’t typically come with many accessories. The primary “accessory” or rather, a crucial preparatory tool, is the Measuring Form available from the manufacturer. This is essential for ensuring you order the correct skirt for your specific Thor model.
Customization options are minimal. The skirt comes in a standard Polar White color and is molded for a specific fit. While it’s possible to paint ABS plastic, it’s not something most RV owners would do for a fender skirt. The real “customization” comes in ensuring you order the correct model number for your RV via the manufacturer’s fitting guides.
Pros and Cons of Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs780 For Thor Citation
Pros
- Durable high-impact ABS plastic construction: Offers excellent resistance to impacts and road wear, ensuring a long service life.
- Designed for specific Thor models: Provides a precise fit for compatible RVs, simplifying installation and ensuring proper coverage.
- Textured finish: Helps to hide minor scratches and scuffs from road debris, maintaining a cleaner appearance over time.
- Effective road debris deflection: Reliably protects the RV’s undercarriage from spray and flung material.
- Easy maintenance: Requires only basic cleaning, making upkeep straightforward.
Cons
- Potential for fitment variations: While designed for specific models, relying on manufacturer’s Measuring Forms is crucial to avoid ordering the wrong size.
- Susceptible to significant impact damage: Despite its durability, a direct, forceful hit from large debris can still cause cracks or breaks.
Who Should Buy Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs780 For Thor Citation?
The Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs780 For Thor Citation is an ideal purchase for Thor RV owners, specifically those with models like the Citation, Jazz, Summit, Sonoma, Tahoe, Vortex, Wave, and Wanderer (and potentially Eclipse, Coachman, Attitude, Chaparral) that feature a tandem axle configuration. If you have a damaged, missing, or weathered fender skirt on your Thor RV, this is a direct and highly suitable replacement. It’s perfect for RV owners who value protection for their vehicle’s undercarriage and appreciate straightforward, durable components.
Those who should perhaps look elsewhere are owners of RVs from manufacturers not listed, or those with single-axle setups, as this specific model is designed for tandem axles. Additionally, if you’re looking for a highly customizable or aesthetically dramatic exterior modification, this part is purely functional and won’t offer those options. A must-have accessory for installation would be the Measuring Forms from the manufacturer to ensure you get the exact right fit, along with appropriate RV mounting hardware like screws and sealant.
Conclusion on Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs780 For Thor Citation
The Icon Tandem Axle Fender Skirt Fs780 For Thor Citation is a solid, no-nonsense replacement part that does exactly what it’s supposed to do. For Thor RV owners with tandem axles, the value proposition is clear: a durable, functional component that protects your vehicle’s undercarriage from the rigors of the road. While not a product that excites with flashy features, its strength lies in its robust construction and reliable performance. The use of high-impact ABS plastic and a textured finish means it’s built to last and maintain its appearance reasonably well.
Considering its price point of $199.99, which is typical for specialized RV body components, it represents a fair exchange for the protection and aesthetic restoration it offers. I would personally recommend this fender skirt to any Thor RV owner who needs to replace a damaged or missing unit. Just be sure to utilize the manufacturer’s Measuring Forms to guarantee a perfect fit for your specific model. It’s a practical, durable solution that restores peace of mind and protects your investment.