If you got 44k out of the stock KO2’s you’re living right. The major concern will be balancing with whatever tire you choose. If you’re not off roading a lot, why change? If you’re making regular visits off road, mudding, heading to sandy beaches etc. then maybe something else would be better, but to be fair, aired down the KO2’s are pretty competent.
As to the fender flares, they’re not cheap from Ford, but maybe Tasca could help or fleabay. I lost the same part when some dip **** tried to cut in my lane. She chose poorly. I got some fender scuffs, Lucille’s tire ripped her car’s front bumper right off. collision was her fault, so her insurance paid.
good luck