Hi I'm a noob here just trying to get some advice on what is a good size to get the 3M tape cut for my tsx for the hood and front fenders for protection from rocks, etc.? I was told I can either go small or large not sure the exact measurements - what would you suggest?

 

3m tape? u mean like..a clear bra kinda thing?

 

Sorry - yes a clear Bra yes but only for the front portion of the hood and front portion of the front fenders.

 

I have it on my TSX. Venture shield actually. Same thing. Without measuring,I would guess it is a 15" at the most on the hood. Get the headlights done too.

 

Ok - I was told it would be 18" so it sounds like large - thx. How do you find it? PPL have also suggested to the front bumper but I don't think I am gonna do that.

 

I really like it. I didnt get the bumper done ,either. But I did get the side view mirror bodies done. I guess it really matters where live. I live in northern Canada. Our roads are sanded in the winter. It can really take a toll on the paint. If I lived in the southern US,I'm pretty sure I would only get the headlights done.

 

ok kul - yeh im in Ontario so we do get salt and the 401 is notorious for rocks - so yeh maybe the mirror bodies maybe a good idea as well.

 

Why are you ordering just the tape? If you are planning on installing this yourself, and it's your first time, I'd suggest getting the clear bra done at a reputable shop instead of doing this yourself. I'd also do the bumper.

 

i did my hood, fender, bumper, fog lamps and side mirrors 3M

 

can i see a picture

 

I've had my whole front end done. That includes the headlights, bumper, grille, hood, front fenders, A pillars, front edge of the roof, and mirrors. It covers the hood about 12" or so, and 8" on the roof.

I've got Ventureshield just because thats what the local shop uses. I've had 3M in the past and its just as good. The Ventureshield has a lifetime warranty from the shop (I dunno if thats this shop only or the manufacturer) and the 3M is something like 5 years? Either way tt costs quite a bit of $$$ but for me I feel its worth it.

 

Nice! thx for all the insights - just one last question - is it okay to apply wax, spray seal, etc to the portion prior to where the clear bra will be put on or should I just wait?

I would assume the garage would spray some type of soap any ways to get the bond with the clear bra??

 

Water and alcohol activate the adhesive. It is then squeezed out and the 3M/Venture shield/Durashield bonds to the car.

 

so shouldn't apply the apply wax, spray seal, etc to the area where the clear bra will be applied? cuz the alcohol would just strip that away correct?

 

even if u did apply wax/sealant they will remove it only the portion where the paint protection will be applied

 

Great! one more question Venture Shield or 3M tape?

 

Correct. They will strip off any wax/paint protection where the clear bar is applied.

 

Not sure what is better. Venture Shield offers a lifetime warranty. Have heard it applies better then 3M. Then again,I've now heard that DuraShield is even better Venture Shield. Really comes down to the tech applying the tape.