Oh no it is needed to support the weight of the fender. Just trying to help troubleshoot your problem. Take it out and check fender fit to see if it is the problem.

 

Today was a better day. I removed (again) the front fender that was causing difficulty, the upper and lower valences, the grill, and the headlight bar and doors. I also removed the fender brace. With all these parts out of the way, I started putting things back together again using Gearhead's suggested order. I am generally pleased with the result. I think the most important key to success was removing the fender brace. Some of the panel gaps and edges are a little out compared to how they fit together off the truck, but maybe I can still do a little tweaking to get my parts to fit better--possibly adding a few bolts here and there will pull things together where there is some separation. Bottom line, my front clip is back together and on the truck after almost a year, and I can now move forward with other aspects of my project. I just need to put the running board and the fender brace back into place, and then it's on to the doors and glass!

Thanks Gearhead and the rest of the FTE family who chipped in, held my hand, and walked me through this phase of my project. Sorry no pictures today. I forgot my camera.

Jim
Deerbrook, WI

 

I remembered my camera took a few pictures today. It was a struggle getting to this point and the finished product is far from perfect, but the rehab of my truck's front clip is now complete. I can now move on to other areas--and believe me there are other areas that need attention.










Thanks again to all those who helped me along the way with their advice.

Jim
Deerbrook, W!