Since I've bothered my installer enough already, I don't want to call his poor wife... again. But I also don't want to wait 'till she calls Monday to confirm my appt. Tues to ask how I should prep my car for him to install the clearbra on Tuesday.
Background is this: Lewis is about 8 months old. Due to an unfortunate garage accident, his bonnet was repainted a few weeks ago. After seeing all the paint chips he had picked up already, I figured this was a good time to get a clearbra installed.
I've been driving around with fresh paint, being very careful to stay away from anything throwing crap at me. But he's dirty. I assume that the surface to be paint-protected shouldn't have any wax on it? So I need to Dawn wash him (At least the front, I don't plan to full detail until he returns)? I know I'll have to be super careful to not get swirlies on him since I won't have a chance to correct them, any advice? And then there's all the bugs. It's spring in Michigan, and... ew. If I goo-gone them off with something suitably soft should I then rinse it was some alcohol?

Thanks!

 

For the bugs, soak some old towels in water and drape them across the front of the car for an hour or so. The water in the towels will "reconstitute" the bug guts and they'll wipe right off.

The installer will do a final cleaning of the surface before applying the film, but it's a good idea to wash the car first just to make the job easier and minimize the chance of ending up with dirt under the film. You're correct that you shouldn't use any wax/sealant/quick-detailer on the paint before taking it in.

 

I would make sure its clean bu like Scott said the installer will do a good clean on the areas for the install

 

You should check with the people that painted your car to see if it is safe to put the clear bra on yet. Most paint needs to out-gas for a while (60 -90 days) before being sealed (waxed) so the same may apply to a clear bra. Not sure myself but a question I would ask the painters.

 

That's not really true with modern paints. Just make sure it's clean and unwaxed (and the installer will do the same, if he's any good), and you'll be fine

 

Well, modern paints still have to off-gas (unless it's a factory-type finish that's baked immediately after application), but if it's been a few weeks, you're probably fine. Also, the clearbra material isn't 100% airtight, so if the paint isn't completely done off-gassing yet, it can finish up even after the clearbra's been applied.

 

Good to know, I was unsure if the clear bra would allow the gas exchange.

 

In fact, don't be surprised if you see some hazing or tiny bubbles under the film for the first few days after a clearbra installation. The moisture will evaporate off through the film and it will clear right up.

 

I am thinking of ordering the 3M clearbra and install in myself with the help of the instructional DVD. Will save 70% if it works. Its a gamble I am willing to take. My question is does the clearbra go on over the sports strips. Thanks!

 

I would recommend putting the stripes over the clear bra. Otherwise I'd the stripes fade, get chipped, or you just want a change, you'll have to pull up the film and replace it to get at the stripes.

 

Body shop said 30 days - it's been about that. I asked that specifically, he said it was baked but it would still need time to cure. Thanks for the replies!

 

I did the clear bra install myself over the stripes. The car is only 8 Months old, but looking good. Who knows 5 years from now...