Mud flaps are an essential safety element for any semi-trailer, especially when it comes to long-distance cargo transportation. Brand "Broom" has long established itself as a reliable manufacturer of accessories for commercial vehicles, but even among its products it is easy to get confused: which models are suitable for semi-trailers, how to attach them correctly and what the law says about their use? In this article we will look at everything from A to Z - with photos, diagrams and practical advice from truck drivers.

Many semi-trailer owners mistakenly believe that mud flaps are only needed to protect them from dirt. In fact, their main function is preventing water and stones from splashing onto oncoming cars, which is regulated by traffic rules and technical regulations. They also reduce wear on the paintwork of the trailer itself. But how to choose a “Broom” so that it lasts for years, does not crack in the cold and does not fly off at speed? More on this later.

If you have already encountered the problem of a flying mudguard on the highway or are looking for a replacement for a worn-out set, this article will help you avoid common mistakes. We analyzed driver reviews, studied manufacturer catalogs and compiled a checklist of criteria that you should pay attention to when purchasing. And for those who are planning to install it themselves, we have prepared step-by-step instructions with the nuances of mounting on different types of semi-trailers.

Why exactly “Broom” mud flaps: the pros and cons of the brand

Manufacturer "Broom" (official name - Metla-Plast LLC) has been specializing in polymer products for vehicles since 2003. Their mud flaps are popular among semi-trailer owners due to their combination of price and quality, but there are also pitfalls.

Key benefits include:

  • 🔹 Material: use shockproof polypropylene or ABS plastic with UV stabilizers, which prevents cracking from the sun.
  • 🔹 Equipment: the kit often includes fastening elements (clamps, bolts, rubber gaskets), whereas competitors have to purchase them separately.
  • 🔹 Certification: products comply with GOST R 41.69-2005 (analogous to UNECE rule No. 69), which is important for passing technical inspection.
  • 🔹 Assortment: there are models for semi-trailers with different wheelbases (from 2-axle up to 3-axle with closely spaced wheels).

However, there are also disadvantages that sellers are silent about:

  • ⚠️ Fastening rigidity: standard metal “Broom” clamps can be deformed during strong vibrations (relevant for semi-trailers with air suspension).
  • ⚠️ Color range: Most models are only available in black or gray, which does not always harmonize with the color of the trailer.
  • ⚠️ Warranty: The official guarantee is valid only when purchasing from dealers, and there are many fakes of the brand on the market.

Important: mudguards “Broom” series Pro They have a reinforced stiffener, but cost 20–30% more than standard ones. If your semi-trailer often drives on gravel or in conditions of severe temperature changes, the overpayment will pay for itself in 1-2 seasons.

📊 What brand of mud flaps do you use on your semi-trailer?
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How to choose “Broom” mud flaps according to the semi-trailer model

The mistake most buyers make is choosing mudguards “by eye” or based on the “what’s cheaper” principle. For semi-trailers, it is critical to consider three parameters:

  1. Wheelbase (distance between axles).
  2. Suspension type (spring, pneumatic, combined).
  3. Ride height (clearance).

The table below shows the correspondence between Broom models and popular semi-trailers:

Semi-trailer model Suitable episode "Brooms" Quantity included Mounting features
Schmitz S.KO Broom-Transit Plus 4 pcs. (2 pairs) Requires extended clamps (not included)
Krone Profi Liner Broom-Profi Reinforced 6 pcs. (for 3-axis) Mounting to suspension brackets
NEFAZ-9334 Broom-Standard 4 pcs. You need to drill holes in the side members
Tirsan Kargo Broom-Eco 4 pcs. Suitable for hanging BPW

For an accurate selection, use article number mudguard. For example:

  • MT-005 — for 2-axle semi-trailers with a wheelbase up to 8 m.
  • MT-012P — for 3-axle vehicles with air suspension (series Pro).
  • MT-008E — an economical option for trailers with spring suspension.
⚠️ Attention: If your semi-trailer is equipped with twin wheels (for example, on axes SAF or Jost), standard Broom mudguards may not cover the entire width. In this case, you will need to purchase additional extension cords (article MT-Add).

Measure the distance between the axles of the semi-trailer|Check the type of suspension (spring/pneumatic)|Check for the presence of mounting holes in the frame|Check the article number with the manufacturer's catalog|Estimate the ride height (clearance)-->

In Russia, the use of mudguards is regulated by two documents:

  1. Technical Regulations of the Customs Union 018/2011 (clause 4.3.4) - obliges to equip with mudguards everything wheels of vehicles categories N2, N3, O3 and O4 (which includes semi-trailers).
  2. Traffic rules of the Russian Federation (clause 7.16) — prohibits the operation of the vehicle if there are no provisions provided for by the design protective devices (including mudguards).

Penalties for missing or faulty mudguards:

  • 📋 For individuals: 500 rubles (Part 1 of Article 12.5 of the Administrative Code).
  • 📋 For legal entities (carriers): up to 10,000 rubles (Part 3 of Article 12.5 of the Administrative Code).
  • 📋 In case of an accident due to a flying mudguard: deprivation of rights for 1–3 months (if a cause-and-effect relationship is proven).

What traffic police inspectors check:

  1. The presence of mudguards on everyone semi-trailer wheels (including the spare if it is located outside).
  2. Integrity: Cracks, chips or deformations are considered defective.
  3. Fastening: the mudguard should not dangle or touch the tire.
⚠️ Attention: If you are transporting large or heavy cargo, the inspector may require certificate of conformity on the mudguards. "Metla" has such certificates, but you need to request them from the seller (often not included in the package).
What happens if the mudguard comes off on the highway?

If the mudguard falls off while driving and causes an accident (for example, falls under the wheels of another car), the blame will fall entirely on the driver of the semi-trailer. An insurance company may refuse to pay under compulsory motor liability insurance, citing violation of vehicle operating rules (Clause 1, Article 14 of Federal Law No. 40-FZ). In judicial practice, there are cases when carriers paid damages in the amount of up to 500,000 rubles for damage caused by a flying mudguard.

Step-by-step instructions for installing “Broom” mud flaps on a semi-trailer

The installation of mud flaps on a semi-trailer differs from passenger cars: it is important to take into account weight loads and vibrationswhich may loosen the fastenings. We have prepared universal instructions suitable for most Broom models.

Required tools:

  • 🔧 Wrenches on 10, 13 and 17.
  • 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (or screwdriver).
  • 🔧 Drill with metal drill bit 8–10 mm (if there are no ready-made holes).
  • 🔧 Sealant Loctite 577 (for threaded connections).
  • 🔧 Clamps (for fixing the mudguard when drilling).

Work order:

  1. Preparation: Drive the semi-trailer onto a level surface and secure the wheels. shoes. Clean the mounting points from dirt and rust (you can use a wire brush).
  2. Trying on: Place the mudguard on the wheel so that it covers at least 80% of the tire width and did not touch it while rotating. Mark the locations for fastenings with a marker.
  3. Drilling (if needed): If there are no holes in the frame, drill them after applying anti-corrosion primer to the edges. The drill diameter should be 0.5 mm less than the bolt diameter.
  4. Mount:
    • For leaf spring suspension: use L-shaped brackets (included with the series Pro).
    • For air suspension: fasten through rubber gaskets (article MT-Gasket) to avoid vibrations.
  • Fixation: Tighten the bolts criss-crossto avoid skew. After installation, check the play: the mudguard should not wobble when pressed by hand.
    • 💡

    Before final tightening of bolts, load the semi-trailer (for example, load it to 30-50% of its maximum weight). This will help avoid deformation of the mudguards on your first ride.

    ⚠️ Attention: If your semi-trailer is equipped with disc brakes, make sure that the mudguard does not block the vents on the calipers. This may lead to brake overheating on long slopes.
    💡

    The most common installation mistake is using standard self-tapping screws instead of bolts and nuts. Vibrations on the semi-trailer quickly loosen the threaded connections, and the mudguard comes off. Always use bolts of strength class 8.8 with groove washers.

    Maintenance and repair: how to extend the life of mudguards

    Even the best quality Broom mudguards lose elasticity over time, crack or become deformed. But with proper care, their service life can be increased by 2-3 times.

    Regular Maintenance:

    • 🧹 Washing: Clean mudguards from dirt and salt every 2–3 trips (especially in winter). Use car shampoo without abrasives.
    • 🛠️ Mount lubrication: Apply to bolts every six months graphite lubricant or WD-40to avoid corrosion.
    • 🔍 Inspection: Check integrity before long flights. Pay attention to microcracks at the base - they can lead to breakage.

    Damage repair:

    Type of damage Repair method Materials
    Cracks up to 5 cm Bonding from the inside Epoxy glue Poxipol + fiberglass
    Chips on the edges Soldering with a soldering iron (for polypropylene) Soldering iron 100 W + solder for plastic
    Heat deformation Leveling with hot air (hair dryer) Construction hairdryer + wooden template
    ⚠️ Attention: If the mudguard is cracked lengthwise stiffening ribs, there is no point in repairing it - it will not withstand the loads. In this case, only replacement.
    How to repair a mudguard with a large crack?

    To repair a crack longer than 5 cm:

    1. Sand the edges of the crack with sandpaper P80.
    2. Apply a layer of epoxy glue to the inside and press down fiberglass.
    3. After drying (24 hours), treat the seam sealant for plastic (for example, 3M Scotch-Weld).
    4. For reliability, strengthen the repair site aluminum tape from the outside.

    Such repairs will extend the life of the splash guard by 1-2 seasons, but does not guarantee 100% tightness.

    Alternatives to "Broom": comparison with other brands

    If for some reason the Broom Mudguards are not suitable for you, consider alternatives. We compared them based on key parameters:

    Brand Material Average price (set) Pros Cons
    Wabco Polyurethane 12 000–15 000 ₽ High impact resistance, does not crack in the cold Expensive, difficult to find in the regions
    Hella ABS plastic with reinforcement 8 000–10 000 ₽ Light weight, UV resistant Thin walls can bend under the weight of dirt
    Tonar Rubber + metal frame 6 000–8 000 ₽ Flexible, does not break when impacted Heavy, wears out quickly from salt
    broom Polypropylene 3 500–6 000 ₽ Price/quality, wide range Standard models are fragile in the cold

    When to choose an alternative:

    • 🚛 If your semi-trailer drives on northern regions (below –30°C), it is better to take Wabco or Hella — their plastic does not harden in the cold.
    • 💰 If the budget is limited, but you need reliability - Tonar with a metal frame will last longer than the Broom-Standard.
    • 🔧 If you often transport building materials (crushed stone, sand), which can damage the mudguards, choose polyurethane models.

    Frequent mistakes when choosing and using

    Even experienced drivers sometimes make mistakes that lead to breakdowns or fines. We have collected the top 5 mistakes and explained how to avoid them.

    Mistake 1: Buying mudguards based on the picture

    Many people order mud flaps from online stores, based only on the photo. The result is a model that is not the right width or has incorrect fastenings. Always check:

    • 📏 Exact tire width (for example, 385/65 R22.5).
    • 🔧 Suspension type (spring/pneuma).
    • 📌 Availability of ready-made holes in the semi-trailer frame.

    Mistake 2: Ignoring vibrations

    On semi-trailers with air suspension mudguards often fall off due to resonant vibrations. To avoid this:

    • Use rubber gaskets between the mudguard and the bracket.
    • Tighten the bolts firmly 20–25 Nm (do not overtighten!).
    • Check the fastenings after the first 500 km mileage

    Mistake 3: Saving on fasteners

    Standard clamps from the Broom kit often rust or break. Replace them with:

    • 🔩 Stainless steel clamps (steel grade A2 or A4).
    • 🔩 Bolts with lock washers (prevent self-unscrewing).

    Mistake 4: Neglecting adjustments

    The splash guard must be installed so that:

    • 📏 The bottom edge was at a distance 10–15 cm from the road.
    • 🔄 Didn’t touch the tire when maximum suspension deflection.
    • 🚫 Didn’t block it reflectors or side lights.

    Mistake 5: Using mud flaps from passenger cars

    Some drivers try to save money by installing mudguards from Gazelles or KamAZ. This is dangerous because:

    • ❌ They are not designed for high speeds (more than 90 km/h).
    • ❌ The material may not withstand hitting stones from the wheels of a semi-trailer.
    • ❌ Mounts are not compatible with trailer frame.
    💡

    If the mudguard begins to “sing along” at speed, this is the first sign that the fastenings have become loose. Don't wait for it to fly off: tighten the bolts or replace the rubber gaskets.

    FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

    Is it possible to install Broom mud flaps on a semi-trailer with disc brakes?

    Yes, but you need to choose a model with ventilation cutouts (series Broom-Vent). They do not block air access to the brake mechanisms. Also make sure that the mudguard does not touch the brake hoses.

    What is the fine if the mudguard falls off on the highway, but I didn’t notice it?

    If the traffic police inspector notices the absence of a mudguard, you will be issued a fine. 500 rubles (Part 1 of Article 12.5 of the Administrative Code). If an accident occurs due to a flying mudguard, the fault will be entirely yours, and the insurance company may refuse to pay under compulsory motor liability insurance.

    What is the difference between the “Broom-Standard” and “Broom-Profi” mudguards?

    Broom-Standard: suitable for semi-trailers with a load of up to 20 tons, plastic thickness - 3 mm, fastening with clamps. Broom-Profi: reinforced stiffener, plastic thickness - 4.5 mm, mounted on brackets, can withstand up to 40 tons. Also in the series Pro there are models with anti-gravel coating.

    Is it possible to paint Broom mudguards?

    Yes, but only special paint for plastic (for example, Motip Plastic Paint). Regular car enamel will peel off quickly. Treat the surface before painting plastic primer (for example, APP Plastik Primer).

    How long will the Broom mudguards last?

    Service life depends on operating conditions:

    • 🚛 Regional transportation (asphalt): 3–5 years.
    • 🏗️ Construction transportation (gravel, crushed stone): 1–2 years.
    • ❄️ Operation at –30°C and below: 2–3 years (risk of cracking).

    To extend service life, treat mudguards once a season silicone grease (slows down the aging of plastic).