rear bumper filler problem

[BW Jones]

i just bought a new set of rear fiberglass bumper fillers for my car. when lining them up with the edges of the rear quarter panels, there is a half inch gap where the two fillers are supposed to overlap in the middle (by the gas filler tube). i called the vendor right away and they said this is normal ........ "you have to tug and pull on them to make them fit." this doesn't sound right to me. i installed a set in a buddy's car a few years ago and never had this problem. has anyone else experienced this problem and if so, how did you resolve it?
bw jones

[Bweavy]

It depends on the filler manufacturer. You should start in the center & work your way out. Try it but if it is 1/2" short that is 1/4" on each side which would be tough.

[Sam Colalillo]

Bruce,
Tim and I cut one side down so it was paralell with the other and made the gap about a half inch wide. Then I sanded the top and bottom with 80 grit. Next I laid fiberglass mat down on top and bottom.

Tim did some of his magic body work and now that seam is no loner there because both fillers are now one piece. It looks really good with out that seam.

[BW Jones]

many thanks to each for your input ....... it's appreciated.
it's difficult to understand why the manufacturer doesn't make sure they are long enough ....... certainly a half inch overlap would be preferred to a half inch gap .
bw jones