Dave is right. Back in 2006 I put on some heavy mud flaps
https://www.trailmanorowners.com/for...ead.php?t=4975
Of course, that was an excellent blowout-prevention measure. After I went to the effort to put them on, I didn't have a blowout on that side for several years. But eventually it happened. While I don't recall the details, I know that the mud flaps failed to protect the plumbing. Needless to say, I was disappointed.
https://www.trailmanorowners.com/for...lap#post107439
Some members who have added rubber mud flaps reported at least partial protection. It all depends on how the tire comes apart, and how the pieces fly.
Because of the spotty results, I agree with Dave. Do it right the first time. Our members have designed a number of metal protective cages (do a Search on "plumbing guard" to find some), and some of them look quite sturdy. In fact, the factory reviewed them and chose one to use as a model for their current one-piece bent-metal cage.
I haven't bought one of the factory add-on units yet, but probably will.
Bill