prep for road trip?

mikecas · 10-07-01, 03:48

Is there something that can be applied to the front bumper and to the front of the hood before a road trip that will help with the removal of bugs and stuff? Make them "less sticky" to the paint? Also, is there some sort of temporary mesh-like cover that can be put on the front grill in order to stop the bugs from hitting the radiator? Don't know if it makes a difference but I always remove any bugs and stuff from the radiator after a road trip. Thanks.

Brian 330Cic · 10-07-01, 05:13

I use a bra for trips. It works great.

I would not try the strap on mesh products I've seen because I would think that on a long trip, it may scratch painted finishes since it is not formed to fit individual cars, which may lead to the mesh flapping at various points on the car.

If you look into a bra, I would suggest a colgan bra. I have used them for years with great results. In my opinion, they are the best fit very well. I think the even guarantee them for sustained 100mph speeds.

Colgan even offers rear view mirror bras, which I have. Keeps the mirrors chip free.

Brian

adjulian · 10-08-01, 12:42

I am partial to the 3M Scotchcal material (xpel.com, or stonguard.com). I have the xpel version on my BMW and love it, expecially for those long trips that you are describing. Great protection for the entire front of the car and on the side view mirrors. It is a little pricey (depending on the car - $400-500) but well worth the investment. It will save you from rock chips, bugs, tar, etc. It is more of a permanent solution but you can take it off without any harm to the paint.

Check out this thread for some pics of some cars, including mine, with it on.

http://216.147.22.29/forum/showthrea...?threadid=3093

Ripsnort · 10-08-01, 12:56

Adjulian, just got a 330Ci delivered, did you apply that yourself or have it done professionally? Considering on getting it, but I like to NOT pay others to do what I could do myself, given that its not rocket science or brain surgery

Brad B. · 10-08-01, 01:20

I have installed several Xpel clear bras so far. It requires patience but is not extremely difficult. If you consider yourself good with your hands and detail oriented you can handle it.

PrinzII · 10-08-01, 01:23

I might consider that for Maxima #2.

adjulian · 10-08-01, 01:27

Only because I was operating under a time constraint. I agree with BradB, I would have installed it myself if I had the time. You can get the xpel kit for your car at under $300.