Originally ordered fenders thru DC and were on backorder, after couple months with the project on hold decided to purchase thru an outfit in SoCal. This was many years ago and don't recall what gage material DC carried at that time. Not sure if DC is remanufacturing the rear fender, kinda under the impression all the Ford part supplier's are now purchasing them thru another source, could be mistaken. Suggest contact and inquire, especially re: thickness of material. The replacement fenders I purchased are very simular/same as the originals it's just that I felt the material is awefully thin. If one does not intend to use the truck for hauling, or as a general workhorse then the fenders may be fine. Anyhow, as I look back disappointed I did not at least take the originals in to see if they were salvagable, and at what cost, quote would have been free an given me another option. It appeared that most of the used replacement fenders I came across had the same issue with rust/rot in the area where fender and step plate join. It seems if the area is not too cancerous a good body man may be able to patch and then reenforce that area. I am also running the exhaust forward of the rear tire which certain is not helping, intend having them rerouted out the back. Keep us posted!!