Our truck does not currently have mud flaps, but I'm assuming that this is something well worth the investment to protect the front of the 5er. 

So first of all, is that a correct assumption?

Secondly, are certain types of mudflaps better?  I've seen the standard ones which go right behind the wheel and I've also seen ones like this http://mrtruck.net/Rock_Tamer_Brochure%5B1%5D.pdf which appear to attach to the hitch mount.  Probably more heavy duty but is it worth the extra money?

All opinions welcome!

Want them don't want them isn't really a question are you legally required to have them that is the question.   It's very likely that they will be legally required for your F450 in at least some of the states your driving through and or going to license it in. 

Now it's possible that your truck bed will go low enough that it won't be required but if you have 4 wheel drive  you may not be legal every where without them.

That said...

I have mudflaps since I have a flat bed they're required at least in the states I've checked. 

They also catch a lot of mud, spray and debris that would of been slung into the trailer.

I would not have a duel rear wheel without them in my opinion assuming any sort of clearance from the bed to the ground.  Sure if you lowered the truck you could get away with it but... could you still tow would be the next question.

Mallo

I've always had them, so don't know if they help protect the front of the fiver...I'm sure they offer quite a bit of protection, plus reduce the amount of road grime thrown back. First truck had aftermarket attached to "L" shaped angle iron bracket bolted to the frame. They were the type used on semis cut down to fit the 1ton dually. They were on the truck when I bought it. New truck has factory molded mudflaps made out of PVC plastic. They look great and no possibilty of flapping. The truck we use at work, a chevy 2500 with flat bed has mud flaps, on one side the flap flipped back up over the exhaust pipe and has a nice big chunk melted out of it. So make sure the flaps won't get damaged if they flap around too much. I've seen some that have been worn by the tire from flipping up on top of the tire. Here's a tip- On my first truck the flaps hung down just a little too low and if I backed over a curb the flap would get stuck between the curb and the tire. The flap was ripped away from the bracket a couple of times. Adjust the height.

I put the factory mud flaps front and rear on my Dodge.They look good and protect well. To me the rock tamers look like over kill and just added weight not really needed.None of them will stop 100% of road spray or rocks. I bought my Factory mudflaps off of e-bay for half the price the Dodge Dealer wanted.

We had them, but they came off and ripped the fender well lining on my cheaply made Ford and I couldn't put them back on. We've been without them for few years now and don't really miss them. When driving in rain there will sometimes be some mud splashed up on the underside, but it's no big deal to just rinse it off. They would be nice, but in no means are they necessary. I've never heard of them being mandatory in any state regs I've read either.

I was told here in TX on a dually (commerical or non-commercial makes no difference), they are required. I suspect that is due to the risk of a rock or other foreign object becoming lodged between the duals and later at higher speed being slung out causing injury/damage or an accident.

Texas does require rear Mud flaps if your Truck is registered. Don't know what they will say or do about out of State DRW Trucks. I have always used Dura Flaps, very professional and they are non-drilling mounted. They are pricey but so is your Truck. GBY...


P.S.  Just Google Dura Flap...............

-- Edited by Delaine and Lindy on Friday 19th of February 2010 06:38:06 PM

I purchased some tow tectors last year and was very happy with. check out their web site.

Thanks all for your responses.  As usual, you've enlightened me.  I never even considered that mud flaps may be required.  Thanks for the suggestions. I will check them out and try to find a balance between cost, quality and necessity.

See, you just thought your research was finished. LOL --Rod