Clear Front Protection (Xpel, Clear Shield, 3M, etc)

[willeybill101]

SATURDAY I INSTALLED INVINCA-SHIELD'S PRE-CUT 3M SCOTCHCAL FILM ON MY TUNDRA. I PUT ON THE 3 HOOD PIECES AND THE 3 UNDER THE GRILL PIECES. THE INSTALL WAS REALLY EASY AND IT ONLY TOOK ABOUT 30 MINUTES AND IT LOOKS PRETTY GOOD. YOU CAN ONLY REALLY SEE THE FILM IF YOU ARE CLOSE TO THE TRUCK. HOPEFULLY IF WILL KEEP THE ROCK CHIPS OFF THE PAINT.

[zpx606]

Used Xpel's product on my truck (same material) and it has worked great. I dont have the first rock chip on the front.

You need to also consider getting the Xpel headlight and turn signal protectors (thicker version but same stuff).

[SATundra]

Originally posted by willeybill101
SATURDAY I INSTALLED INVINCA-SHIELD'S PRE-CUT 3M SCOTCHCAL FILM ON MY TUNDRA. I PUT ON THE 3 HOOD PIECES AND THE 3 UNDER THE GRILL PIECES. THE INSTALL WAS REALLY EASY AND IT ONLY TOOK ABOUT 30 MINUTES AND IT LOOKS PRETTY GOOD. YOU CAN ONLY REALLY SEE THE FILM IF YOU ARE CLOSE TO THE TRUCK. HOPEFULLY IF WILL KEEP THE ROCK CHIPS OFF THE PAINT.

I thought this stuff was VERY difficult to install and should be done by an experienced installer, even then it took 5-6 hours to do. Is this a new kit that is out that makes the install alot easier?

SATundra

[zpx606]

Did it by myself in about 2 hours. You just need to be patient. Experience with dealing with applying window tint would be a plus. It really is not that hard. It is just tedious. I imagine the kit is the same. I cant imagine it taking 5-6 hours though unless you actually had to cut the kit yourself (this would be virtually impossible....the kits come precut).

One of the best, if not the best, purchase I made. Really like it as it gives excellent protection without spoiling the clean lines of the truck.

[willeybill101]

HEY ZPX606 WHAT PIECES DID YOU INSTALL ON YOUR TRUCK? I THINK THE TRICK IS KEEPING THE PIECES REALLY WET SO YOU CAN MOVE THEM AROUND EASIER. I ALSO ORDERED THE HEADLIGHT KIT FROM PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS, HOPEFULLY THEY ARRIVE SOON.

[zpx606]

I just did the hood, the two pieces for each fender and the trim piece below the grill as well as the headlights.

I did not apply the mirror pieces because mine are chrome and it would have been a major pain in the butt with all the compound curves on the mirror.

I used some of the leftover scrap and made door sill protectors (not the first scratch there either). If I spent a lot of time going down dirt roads I would have also invested in the pieces that protect the leading edge of the bed and flares.

[pistolpete]

Was wondering what everyone uses to clean and protect the front chrome strips on the grill on their Tundras (I have 2004 Tundra DC)...previous vehicles I had, all the "chrome" (ie chrome plated plastic or aluminum) rubbed off or thru and/or pitted...anyway to protect this from happening?

[sequoiasoon]

Autoclear guard, x-pel, stongard, invincashield.

The 3M paint protection film stuff. You should be able get a "bulk" piece and cut it real nice and apply where nobody will see a seam if you go right to edge. It will be plastic covered no chips, scratches, pitting etc. You can wax it.

Any of the better waxes / acrylics will help protect it for some time but will wear off. Paint film will keep it nice for a LONG time.

[Diamond Dog]

I am looking to get one of those clear auto bra's that use the 3M films.

I have read up on it and they say the installation is critical. The best intalls are those that do not use "pre-cut" patterns. The best installations cut it on your car so they can roll the edges of the film under the edges of the metal parts (ie hood)

Does anyone know anyone in Orange County, CA area that does this for a good price?

If I do it, I'll be sure and ask the shop for a discount for all of you (you know me )

[e_j_m]

Originally Posted by Diamond Dog

I am looking to get one of those clear auto bra's that use the 3M films.

I have read up on it and they say the installation is critical. The best intalls are those that do not use "pre-cut" patterns. The best installations cut it on your car so they can roll the edges of the film under the edges of the metal parts (ie hood)

Does anyone know anyone in Orange County, CA area that does this for a good price?

If I do it, I'll be sure and ask the shop for a discount for all of you (you know me )

Go here:

http://solutions.3m.com/wps/portal/_...9/_s.155/98912

and you can find a shop near you.

I have the stuff on my motorcycle, and it's the bomb. I'll be getting it for my Tundra in September. You can DIY, but it does take a while do master the technique (not to mention cut all the pieces just right), so if time is short, have it done for you.

[Diamond Dog]

Thanks, but I have already been to that site as well as searched the internet.

I am really looking someone to give me a first hand recomendation of someone in my area and someone who will cut to fit rather than use patterns.