Has anyone installed the Ford OEM front bra (or an aftermarket equivalent) on their 04 F-150? If yes, how do you like it. If not, why was this not an option for you?

I've seen some threads about the bug deflectors making the hoods vibrate and I saw one about the deflector actually attracting bugs. I was looking at the bra as an alternative to keep the front end paint nice and bug/chip clean. I have the bright red paint and the all black front end "look" seems like a nice color match.

 

I've never been a fan of bra's because dirt can get trapped under them and as they blow in the wind cause scratches on the finish. There is a new product (I think 3M makes it) that is a clear plastic, like saran wrap, that is installed professionally to protect the front end and lights and is basically invisible once installed. The way I see it, if she's gotta wear a bra, it should at least be see through!

 

I highly recommend 3M Scotchcal instead of a black vinyl or leather bra. IMHO it looks (or doesn't detract) much better. There are many companies that sell it. I installed it myself with some patience. Here is a pic of it just on the fender, not the hood yet. I bought my kit from Invinca Shield. Xpel and Stongard are other popular companies that cut custom kits for vehicles.

 

That's the stuff...thanks APT. Also, I wish I had done it, I already have two stone chips just above my grill.

 

I have to agree with BigSherm, a bra WILL put a bra burn on your front end! Been there and done that!!

 

I bought a Ford Bra and it has been returned due to hood slapping at interstate speeds.....
The design is bad I think...
I use them on a temporary basis to make the mad dash high speed runs to my beach house lol...
I have e-mailed back and forth w/ Ford ACC. On this problem and we are going to try another one just to make sure it was not just a bad apple.
I must say thier cust service was great and I would not hesitate to buy from them again
Gatr

 

What's the point in keeping the paint on the front looking nice if you're gonna cover it up with an ugly bra?

 

Bras are just bad news,
I like the 3m adhesive, but I can't bring my self to stick it on my new truck

With my bug deflector, I'll just opt for painting the front clip if need be in 5 years

 

I hear ya.

 

Lund Deflector all the way!

 

Just curious. Does the 3M clear tape provide UV protection for the paint. Obviously, after it is installed, you can no longer wax the area it is covering.

 

Search the 3M automotive web site for Scotchcal and Scotchgard and you'll find all kinds of information. Like, here is a FAQ with info about UV protection.

I bought a new 2002 Lexus with extremely soft paint. After a couple month of ownership, I had more paint ships than any other vehicle I have owned. Then, I did some research and found others that recommended this product. It was too late for me because I had already had some rock chips, and I wasn't ready to repaint the front end. However, I sold that car, but had the hood and front fender painted before selling. When I bought my 03 F-150, I lined up the film prior to delivery. There were paint issues on the hood at delivery, so I didn't get to install the film right away. By the time I got it to a body shop, I already had a couple chips to fill. Since I suck at that, it didn't turn hout well, but the paint is covered and looks better than white chips. Since, I have covered the front part of the hood and have enjoyed about 15k miles since installation. I love it and will probalby put it on all my new vehicles.

 

I totally agree with APT regarding the 3M film. As I understand it, it's sold under an number of names (Xpel was what I got but the backing paper had the 3M logo). Anyway, I had my entire front end done (upper and lower bumper, lower portion of the hood and fenders AND headlights/foglights). I believe the majority of the film was 8 mil and the headlight/foglights were 40 mil (supposedly can take a hit from a rock at 100 mph and not break the light). With 12K now on the truck, I coudn't be happier. It has a five year warranty against yellowing, tearing, etc. and is, as they say, "virtually invisible". I too will have it on any new vehicle that I purchase, and I will do it as soon as possible after purchase. I'm that impressed. BigBlue......yes, you can wax over this after the curing period (I believe it was 10 days) and you do get a certain degree of UV protection as I understand it. IronMan.....the film can be removed with a heat gun and the adhesive removed with a suitable solvent. In fact, during the installation, the tech didn't like the way a particuliar section turned out so he did just that, with no problems, and believe me, I'm a stickler for anything that might mess with the appearance of my truck.

 

What front clip will you need to paint, and why? I'm thinking about the bug deflector.

Also, how do you find that 3M stuff? I'm not one who has modified vehicles in my life, so I don't know the first step in where I should be looking.

 

Guigster-I wouldn't necessarily call this a mod in the truest sense but it is certainly something that will keep your truck looking new for much longer than would ever be possible without it. Like I said, this 3M film is sold under a bunch of different names. Mine was sold by a company called Ultrashield, but I've seen Xpel and Invinca as well. Here are a couple of links
http://www.invinca-shield.com/main.htm
http://www.clearbra.com/default.asp (xpel)