Icon Dem Fender Skirt Fs1770 Review

What’s Special About the Icon Dem Fender Skirt Fs1770?

When the original fender skirt on my travel trailer suffered an unfortunate encounter with a rogue piece of debris, the search for a replacement began. I needed something that wouldn’t just fill the gap but would also maintain the aesthetic and functional integrity of my rig. The Icon Dem Fender Skirt Fs1770 quickly stood out as a robust and widely compatible option. It promises durability through its high-impact ABS plastic construction and a subtle, classic taupe finish.

This wasn’t just about cosmetic repair; a damaged fender skirt can lead to further issues with debris being thrown by the tires onto the trailer body. My primary concern was finding a part that was both resilient and a good fit for a multi-brand compatible design. I briefly considered generic, unbranded options, but the specific compatibility claims and the manufacturer’s reputation for RV parts made this model a more appealing choice.

Initial impressions upon arrival were positive. The material felt substantial, not flimsy, and the textured surface suggested it could handle the rigors of road travel. There was an immediate sense of relief that a practical solution was at hand, avoiding the need for costly bodywork or a less-than-ideal patch job.

Real-World Testing: Putting Icon Dem Fender Skirt Fs1770 to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing environment was straightforward: the dusty confines of my driveway and the open road during a weekend camping trip. I was eager to see how this fender skirt would perform after a long drive. The installation process itself was a good initial indicator of ease of use.

The skirt fit snugly into place, requiring only minimal adjustment to align with the existing mounting points. I noted its performance during a stretch of road that was particularly rough, with plenty of loose gravel. It held firm, with no rattling or flexing that would suggest a poor fit or weak material.

One minor surprise was the slightly different hue compared to the original, though still within the acceptable “taupe” range. This is a common occurrence with replacement parts, but worth noting for those seeking an exact match. Overall, the initial experience was smooth and without any significant hurdles.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months and multiple trips, the Icon Dem Fender Skirt Fs1770 has proven its mettle. It’s been exposed to rain, sun, and the inevitable road grime without any noticeable degradation. The high-impact ABS plastic seems to be living up to its billing, showing no signs of cracking or becoming brittle.

Maintenance has been minimal; a simple wash with soap and water is all that’s needed to keep it looking presentable. I haven’t encountered any issues with mud or water being trapped in a way that causes damage or discomfort. Compared to some cheaper, flimsier alternatives I’ve seen on other RVs, this unit feels substantially more durable.

The textured finish has also held up well, resisting minor scuffs and scratches that would have been more apparent on a glossy surface. It’s reassuring to know that this component is reliably doing its job, protecting the trailer and maintaining its appearance.

Breaking Down the Features of Icon Dem Fender Skirt Fs1770

Specifications

The Icon Dem Fender Skirt Fs1770 is constructed from high-impact ABS plastic, a material known for its resilience and resistance to impact. This is crucial for an RV component that faces constant exposure to road debris and varying weather conditions. The skirt is finished in a taupe color, offering a neutral and widely compatible aesthetic for many RV models.

A key functional aspect is its design for tandem axle trailers, providing ample coverage and an added clearance between the trailer and the ground. This clearance is not just about appearance; it can prevent the trailer from bottoming out on uneven surfaces. For those needing precise measurements, the manufacturer’s website offers measuring forms, a helpful tool to ensure a perfect fit before purchase.

The compatibility with a wide range of brands—including Crossroads, Dutchmen, Forest River (Shasta), Keystone, Palomino, KZ, Heartland, and Skyline—is a significant selling point. This broad compatibility means it’s a versatile replacement part, likely to fit many different travel trailer configurations. This specification alone reduces the guesswork for many RV owners searching for a replacement.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of a fender skirt is protection, and in this regard, the Icon Dem Fender Skirt Fs1770 performs admirably. It effectively shields the sides of the travel trailer from rocks, dirt, and road spray kicked up by the tires. Its robust construction means it doesn’t flex or deform under pressure, ensuring continuous protection even on rough terrain.

Its most significant strength lies in its durability and the enhanced clearance it provides. The ABS plastic feels robust enough to withstand minor impacts without immediate failure. On the downside, while the taupe color is common, it might not be a perfect match for every RV’s specific shade, which could be a minor aesthetic drawback for some meticulous owners.

Considering its price point of $163.99, the performance is solid. It meets expectations for a durable, functional replacement part that can handle the demands of travel. It doesn’t necessarily exceed expectations with groundbreaking features, but it reliably fulfills its intended purpose.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this fender skirt is practical and functional, prioritizing resilience over elaborate aesthetics. The textured finish is a smart choice, helping to mask minor scuffs and dirt that inevitably accumulate on RV exteriors. This finish also provides a subtle grip, which is more relevant during installation than regular use.

While “ergonomics” might seem an odd term for a fender skirt, it relates to how easily it’s handled and installed. The ABS plastic, while strong, is manageable enough for one person to install with basic tools. The design is straightforward, without any complex curves or attachments that would complicate mounting.

The overall feel of the material suggests good build quality, giving confidence that it won’t degrade quickly under UV exposure or temperature fluctuations. It feels like a part designed to last, rather than a temporary fix.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction from high-impact ABS plastic, the durability of the Icon Dem Fender Skirt Fs1770 is expected to be quite high for its intended application. It is designed to endure the rigors of road travel, including impacts from small stones and road grit. Under normal usage, this type of material can last for many years without significant degradation.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple; it requires no specialized cleaning agents or intricate upkeep. A regular wash with mild soap and water is sufficient to keep it clean and prevent the buildup of corrosive road salts or grime. There are no complex moving parts or sensitive surfaces to worry about.

Potential failure points would likely stem from severe impacts, such as hitting a large pothole at speed or a direct collision with an obstacle. However, for everyday road conditions, it appears to be a very resilient component.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Icon Dem Fender Skirt Fs1770 is typically sold as a standalone replacement part, meaning it doesn’t come with extensive accessories. Its primary “customization” lies in its wide compatibility across various RV brands. The manufacturer does offer measuring forms on their website, which is an invaluable tool for ensuring the correct fit before purchase, acting as a pre-installation customization guide.

This unit is designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing mounting hardware on compatible RVs. There are no specific aftermarket accessories designed for this particular fender skirt itself, as its function is quite specialized. Its value is in its direct fit and protective purpose, rather than in add-ons or modifications.

Pros and Cons of Icon Dem Fender Skirt Fs1770

Who Should Buy Icon Dem Fender Skirt Fs1770?

This fender skirt is an excellent choice for RV owners with tandem axle travel trailers who need a reliable replacement for a damaged or missing fender skirt. It’s particularly well-suited for those who own or have owned RVs from brands like Crossroads, Dutchmen, Forest River (Shasta), Keystone, Palomino, KZ, Heartland, and Skyline, due to its advertised compatibility. If you prioritize durability and functional protection over an exact color match, this model is a strong contender.

Those who should probably skip this product are RV owners with single-axle trailers or those who absolutely require a factory-perfect color match without any potential variation. It’s also not the ideal choice if you’re on an extremely tight budget and are looking for the cheapest possible fix, as there are likely less durable, unbranded options available at a lower cost.

A must-have accessory for installing this fender skirt would be a basic RV repair kit that includes appropriate screws or rivets for attachment, as these are often not included with the skirt itself. Having a measuring tape and perhaps a helper to hold the skirt during initial fitting would also make the installation process smoother.

Conclusion on Icon Dem Fender Skirt Fs1770

The Icon Dem Fender Skirt Fs1770 is a high-quality, durable replacement component that effectively serves its purpose of protecting travel trailers. Its robust ABS plastic construction and thoughtful design, including the enhanced clearance and textured finish, make it a practical choice for many RV owners. While the price is a consideration, the longevity and reliable performance it offers justify the investment for those needing a dependable solution.

I would personally recommend this fender skirt to anyone with a compatible tandem axle trailer who is looking for a long-lasting and functional replacement. It’s a product that delivers on its promises of durability and broad applicability. If your priority is to safeguard your RV’s exterior and maintain its functionality on the road, the Icon Dem Fender Skirt Fs1770 is a solid, reliable choice that should serve you well for years to come.