DIY Clear Film Install, Clear Bra Install, Starshield Install

[jmmorford]

This thread is dedicated to do-it-yourself installation of clear film paint protection. I'm starting it because I have not been able to find a thread that actually focuses on tips for installation. Please don't hi-jack this thread with warranty claim complaints, opinions on what shop does the best installation or debates about the benefits of paint protection film. I'm hoping we can just collect the beta on how to successfully tackle film installation on our cars.

I've dipped my toe in the water by replacing the film on my interior door sills. My sills (and all other interior plastic) are custom painted in high gloss piano black. The sills get scuffed up a bit (see threads on gracefully entering an Elise). I ordered some 3M film in bulk and cut it myself. It was a learning process, but the result is darned good.

I found some good instructions at this site: Installation - 3M Clear Bra Tampa, FL - (813) 505-3868

Here are my best tips from the process:

1. Take plenty of time to cut the film to match the area before you start the installation. Cutting in place is pretty difficult for me. I'm interested in tips on how to cut film in place with a razor and not penetrate the clear coat below.

2. Use loads of the dilute soap solution to allow you slide the film around while applying. Flood the paint surface. Once you apply alcohol solution, it adheres in a few minutes and you really can't pull it up without stretching it. It's easy to squeegee out the solution. It's hard to squeegee out air.

3. Compound curves are a bear. You really have to stretch to make this work. I did not use heat, but I will next time. I'm sure it would help. Stretching is easiest when the film is already anchored. And you have to stretch early before you get to the critical curve area.

4. Don't panic over bubbles in the film. The really small ones seem to just go away in a week or two, probably faster if you hit them with a hair dryer. The large ones are easy to pop with a sewing needle; use a soft rag to smooth them out and absorb the fluid. The needle holes are barely detectable when you really look for them.

5. You can even get rid of wrinkles. I had some wrinkles right on the convex curve on the interior edge of the sill (see compound curve above). I figured I had completely blown it. But I drained the fluid out of them (popped with needle) and worked them with my finger tips. I got it all to adhere. I can still barely detect a little unevenness with my fingers, but I can't see it.

So I'm declaring the first effort to be a success. Next I want to do the rear fender panels which have really yellowed on my white Elise. Obviously, I'll purchase precut pieces for this. Any tips for that install or for rockers will be appreciated.

So unload the advice guys. SweetDaddyD, how about some of your secrets!

[dbisbee]

Please see SweetDaddyD thread as to why he is not able to chime in on this.