Part of what's satisfying about owning a new vehicle is that pristine, blemish-free exterior. No matter how careful you are, however, it seems as though your vehicle starts collecting minor dings and scratches almost as soon as you drive it off the dealer lot. There are some measures you can take to help minimize that occurrence, including installation of protective side molding or a protective paint shield for more vulnerable parts of the vehicle body. One spot that's particularly subject to paint scratches is the area surrounding the keyhole on the driver- and passenger-side doors. When scratches occur here, it's usually a case of insult added to injury, since the vehicle owner is generally the one who actually causes the scratches. To reduce the possibility of paint scratches, consider installing a protective plate around the keyhole. One option is a clear film protector (figure A) that is simply applied by peeling off the adhesive backing and pressing in place. For more reliable protection, there are a variety of metal plate-style key guards available. These are generally made from stainless steel and are applied with an adhesive backing or body side-molding tape. Some are small, square plates (figure B), but the one we installed in our demonstration has a slightly larger surface area for more protection (figure C). Installing these plates is very simple. Materials: Key-guard installation kit
Rubbing alcohol
Old toothbrush
Clean white rag - Begin by cleaning the surface around the keyhole with an old toothbrush to loosen and remove any dirt, wax and residue (figure D).
- Next, prepare the surface by cleaning it thoroughly with alcohol and a clean white rag (figure E). This removes wax and readies the surface so that the adhesive can stick to it securely. Avoid using colored rags for cleaning, as the dyes in the fabric may leave behind a film or residue.
- Peel the backing from the adhesive on the back of the plate and then carefully align the plate over the keyhole. Make sure that the plate is straight and that the keyhole itself is not obstructed before placing the plate on the surface.
- Position the plate on the surface and press it into place from the top down. Push down firmly so that the plate contours to the shape of the door (figure F ).
Avoid washing the car for several days so the adhesive has time to season for a permanent bond.
RESOURCES :
Auto Repair for Dummies
Author: Deanna Sclar
ISBN: 0764550896
Vehicles provided by McNelly-Whaley Ford Lincoln Mercury
750 Dolly Parton Parkway
Sevierville, TN 37862
Phone: 865-453-2833
Web site: www.ford4u.com
Vehicles provided by Lance Cunningham Ford
Vehicles provided by Lance Cunningham Ford
4101 Clinton Highway
Knoxville, TN
Web site: www.lancecunninghamford.com
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