Mounting

Fastening components for side guards ensure the secure installation of side guards between the front and rear axles of trucks. This protective structure reduces the risk of cyclists or pedestrians ending up underneath the vehicle in the event of a side collision. The category includes mounting brackets, support profiles, clamping plates, spacer bushes, screw sets, locknuts, body washers and fastening clips for plastic or aluminium guard panels.

On MAN F2000, M2000, TGL, TGM, TGA, TGS, TGX and TG3, as well as Mercedes LN, SK, Atego, Axor, Antos, Actros, Arocs and Econic, the mounting points vary according to chassis version, wheelbase, axle configuration, fuel tank layout and bodywork. Vans such as the MAN TGE and Mercedes Sprinter may also use specific fastening materials for protective side panels or step assemblies. Parts must therefore always be identified using the vehicle's chassis number. Visual comparison or selection based solely on the model name is never sufficient.

Correct installation requires a suitable combination of bracket geometry, hole diameter, thread pitch, bolt length and material type. Galvanised steel fasteners provide good corrosion protection; stainless steel versions are recommended where road salt, moisture or cleaning agents are frequently present. On aluminium profiles, insulating plastic washers or suitable coatings must prevent galvanic corrosion between steel and aluminium.

Loose side guards are rarely caused solely by a defective bolt. In practice, worn mounting holes, cracked support brackets, deformed chassis rail brackets, missing locknuts and corrosion beneath clamping surfaces are common causes. Contact with kerbs, loading docks, site materials or stone chips can place lateral stress on the guard. This can result in permanent deformation that causes stress in brackets and fasteners.

First check that the guard panel remains clear of the wheel, tyres, air tanks, wiring harnesses and air lines during full suspension compression and rebound. Then measure the diameter and roundness of the mounting holes using vernier callipers or a gauge pin. An ovalled mounting hole must not be remedied with a larger washer without assessing the load-bearing bracket. Check threads for damage, measure the remaining material thickness where corrosion is present, and inspect welds or chassis brackets for hairline cracks. If in doubt, use a dye penetrant test on steel brackets.

Also watch for unusual vibrations or rattling noises while driving. These often indicate insufficient clamping force, missing spacer bushes or a panel rubbing against an adjacent component. Do not reuse self-locking nuts when the locking function is noticeably worn, and always replace stretched or corroded bolts per connection.

Before installation, clean the contact surfaces of mud, rust and old sealant residue. Position the side guard without stress: bolts must not pull the panel or bracket into position. Fit spacer bushes of the correct length so that plastic panels are not locally compressed. Tighten fasteners crosswise to the specified torque for the relevant diameter, strength class and material combination. Excessive preload can crack plastic or deform thin-walled aluminium profiles; insufficient preload causes loosening due to vibration.

Use only fastening sets whose fit matches the original chassis rail, bracket and guard. After installation, check the clearance at full steering lock, axle movement and under load. A torque check after the initial operating period is recommended, especially for vehicles used in distribution, construction site or refuse collection applications. Braem can help identify the correct fastening components using the chassis number, ensuring that the side guard is once again securely and correctly fitted.