Tired of road rash and rock chips? A few years ago we found a protective film that protects painted surfaces from minor abrasions and flying rocks. When we recently rediscovered it in the Universal Products catalog, we thought it would be a must see for CCT readers.
The installation was not difficult. The product is pliable and versatile, and in its proper use, it's invisible as well. This may be just the right item for those who dread the thought of hiding well painted surfaces with a vinyl bra. The material has almost unlimited uses, is inexpensive, and can be removed without harming the paint it covers.
Uni-Gard is available from Universal Products' distributors or direct from the company. The film comes in a variety of sizes and widths, and can be cut to order by most dealers. Check out how you can protect the paint in areas subject to road rash and flying stones.
Gather your tools prior to...
Gather your tools prior to starting the job. Here we'll use the Uni-Gard film, a few cleanup supplies, a sharp hobby knife, and a plastic squeegee.
The first step in any surface...
The first step in any surface operation is the clean up of the affected surfaces. We used window cleaner and a fairly clean, damp towel to wipe away loose dirt and a little oxidized paint. Complete removal of wax from the surface isn't necessary here, but you will need to work away from direct sunlight.
When the surface is clean,...
When the surface is clean, measure the amount of film needed by stretching it along the area you plan to cover. Too much film isn't a problem, but too little is.
Position your film after measuring...
Position your film after measuring and strip off about a foot or so of the white backing paper. We set the film so it passed the hood's lower edge by a 1/4-inch or so all the way across. The lower border will wrap under the hood when the job is complete.
After the film is in place,...
After the film is in place, you can begin smoothing it with your thumb as you watch for air bubbles. The material can be pulled back up if you encounter big bubbles or creases, but it will stretch out of shape if the surface is hot.
We encountered a body contour...
We encountered a body contour crease on the hood of this '80s-era Blazer, so the material was pressed slowly into place using a thumb. The film is pliable on gentle curves, as long as the surface is cool. The material will cure within a day or so of proper installation.
Finally, trim the film at...
Finally, trim the film at the end of the finished panel. Pierce any small air bubbles with a needle or a sharp X-Acto blade. Patches of lighter color in the finished job indicates air is trapped beneath the surface, and that air will usually pass through as the film cures.