would removing these and the plastic actually help prevent rust, because it seems like it would do the opposite

 

i removed mine and i havent gotten any rust. just be careful with driving through tar or road paint bc it will get on the car, also mud but thats not as big as of a deal

 

it just seems like removing it wouls cause water to get into areas it shouldnt, but im a newbie, i'll remove them this weekend.......and how much do they weigh??

 

send them to me. i need some.

 

also heard that it actually prevents rust because air can flow better through fender walls as well as water draining off better. just removed mine cause changed fenders and am too lazy to put back on. some ludes look better with them on some better with off...woulden't remove sideskirts though..would get chipped up something ugly. then lots of rust.