Hi everyone! I have FINALLY decided that I want to cover my bumper with a clear bra. I just want to do the bumper because it simply gets the most exposure.

My question is, I would like to know what will look/fit best on a Super Black; 3M or Venture tape. Those are my 2 options. I've read many threads on the clear bra topic, but I haven't seen many comparisons.

I was also told by an experienced installer here in Toronto
that hand cutting it on my bumper will, in fact, look better and more seamless than a precut peice from a kit. He has done Lambos and most of the bmw's at delaerships in Toronto and insists that it will look better. However, the installation time would be increased. I'm worried about symmetry.

I would like to know everyones oppinion on these issues. Thanks in advance!

Tom

 

I have the 3M film and I'm very happy with it. I heard from my installer that there were some issues iwith the film yellowing when it first came out a few years ago, but those issues have been resolved. I believe the 3M warranty covers any issues like this.
I can't verify the installers claim, but I would be nervous about someone cutting a film while on my bumper, but it may be possible. I would ask to see some of his work and judge for yourself. The 3M film is cut to precision, and is stretched to fit perfectly. He may be able to cover a little more by cutting it on, but I'd see his work first.

 

I have Llumar film on a 2004 Accord. Its more "clear" than the 3M stuff. The installer had both available. Compared the Llumar and 3M side by side before the install, Llumar much better and lifetime warranty on the install and againt yellowing. 3M's film had an orange peel look to it.

Do the hood and front portion of the fender also. You will see the seam at some angles but it better than paint chips.

As for cutting on the car, most will stretch it and cut it to line up with body seam. I don't think they will actually cut on the paint.

 

get llumar instead. i have it on my front bumper and lip. i'm very satisfied with it.

 

i run with 3m and i don't have any problems with it at all... no bubbling, yellowing or flaking of any kind and it also carries a lifetime warranty from 3m

tommy: if you want we can meet up sometime this week and i get let you take a look at my install... you're pretty close by

 

I have the full 3m kit...bumper, half-hood, mirrors, etc. I was sceptical at first...but after I saw the result, I'm convinced...this stuff is great.

My 350Z is BrickYard...which is the deep burgundy color they only made in 2003...and I am very satisfied with the results on this color.

Of course, the darker the color, the more you are going to see imperfections that were on the finish prior to the film and any imperfections in the installation. No installer is perfect. With a light colored car...they're there...you just don't see them as much.

I get compliments all the time from people who see the car.

I also am glad I did the hood too... When you think about it...how many rocks are only 18 inches off the highway at bumper height...most of 'em bounce a couple of times right onto your hood.

Good luck in your decision. Be sure to let the film 'cure' in the sun for several hours after the install. Also, ask the installer for one of the 'squeege-tools' he uses to get rid of small bubbles. You will find a few...it is inevitable.

 

what about hand cutting (custom) as opposed to a bumper kit (precut)??? Thats my main concern......I'm talking about the bumper only. Is your bumper fully wrapped??

 

yep...fully wrapped. why would you want just part?

 

I just had a venture tape bra put on a couple months ago and there are already about 4 bubbles that have formed on the front bumper piece. However, they did not appear until the day I picked up the Z after leaving it at a body shop for 3 weeks to fix a key scratch (a loooong story.)

I got it done at EDL in Torrance, CA. The guys there are really cool, and they're going to take a look at it when i bring it in next week.

 

I have 3M. four days after install its perfect.

I absolutly see no orange peel or discoloration. In fact it really is hard to tell its on there. The only time you can tell is if your withing a few feet you can see the line, and if there is a light reflecting off of it, the light reflects differently on the 3M.

I have not waxed the car yet at all, so that may change.

 

how much does a clear bra cost for just the front bumper? anyone kno a good shop in so cal LA area ?

 

don't let him cut on the car. get a dynashield kit www.dynashield.com and have him install it, it looks awesome. as for film, I've had all 3 (venture, llumar and 3m) I highly recommend the llumar. Its by far the best on black.

 

Anyone know where i can find a dealer locator for 3m

Thanks

 

Check w/ Invisiblepatterns.com for dealer locator:

http://www.invisiblepatterns.com/dealers.asp

 

http://solutions.3m.com/wps/portal/_...8912/_l/en_US/

 

oh yeah, after about a month, the venture film shrunk quite a bit, so much so that my installer ripped it off and redid the car in 3m