Originally Posted by
tarwheel
I used the Dremel to shorten stays on one of the fenders, but it didn't cut as well as I expected. Perhaps I was using the wrong attachment. I'm thinking a bolt cutter would be the right tool for the job, and will probably break down and buy one.
Andy - I'll look for a photo on-line, but here is a better description. The fenders sold by Planet Bike, SKS, typically have adjustable stainless steel stays that run from eyelet at the dropouts to the fender edge. Because they are adjustable in length, they typically run longer than needed, extending an inch or so beyond the bracket where they attach to the fender. For most of the stays, trimming them is more of an aesthetic issue. However, the lower front stays cause a toe-strike issue if too long, so that is what I am most concerned about.
The thing about the Dremel, is you have to let the tool do the work. It's super fast, just let it work its way through the metal without using much force. You will then usually have to file down the sharp ends, or just put a plastic cap on and be done.
I actually cut the black bracket things so the end cap comes off--and then I put it back on when I have the stays cut.
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1964 JRJ (Bob Jackson), 1973 Wes Mason, 1974 Raleigh Gran Sport, 1986 Schwinn High Sierra, 2000ish Colian (Colin Laing), 2011 Dick Chafe, 2013 Velo Orange Pass Hunter