Howdy all,

When I had my '03 MCS, I didn't care much about the door panels getting beat up since it had the tough patina finish. BUT, I knew when our '05 MCS replacement came in, with it's painted interior trim, we had to protect it from the odd foot brush when entering/exiting.

Here's my little homemade solution ala clear bra:

First make sure you have the proper vinyl application tools!



Using some painters tape, I came up with a template for the lower door panel, which I'll use as a guide on the raw material I got from my local installer:



I tried a prelim version where the protection came to a point but it was prone to delaminating:



Hence a version where the tips are lopped off! Not a big issue since I never tend to kick the edges, just the larger lower area.



Now make sure the surface is clean...



... and spritz on some vinyl application fluid on the door panel, a little goes along way.

 

Now comes the tricky part, carefully seperate the clear vinyl from it's backing. I use two pieces of painters tape so I don't accidentally touch the application side.



Once you have that seperated, spritz the application side of the vinyl with application fluid.



I would also use another piece of painters tape for the opposing side to help you guide the vinyl into place:



Once you have the vinyl aligned to where you want it, use your squeegie to work from the middle out to remove the application fluid and bubbles. I use a towel to help blot up the excess fluid.





Depending on how much application fluid you applied and/or how complex of a surface you're trying to conform to, it might take some time until the bubbles/fluid is removed and the vinyl starts adhering. If you're using vinyl on the outside of the car, make sure it's a UV graded vinyl designed to last outdoors and endure exposure to the sun.

Voila! Protected door panels that will take all the foot punishment you can throw at it.

 

Very nice!

Now, do the same thing for the speaker!

I keep catching my grille with the leading edge of my shoe...

 

Dang, that is exactly what I need..

 

You might have something there. Man I want to do this now. Although I would probaly go overboard and do my entire interior.

Your setup is sweet

 

sounds interesting....we already have a scuff or two in my wife's red door panels. I'll have to get some of this!

 

Great work!

 

Very interesting