Bra or no Bra

Jbeni96 · 11-09-2007, 05:48 PM

I live in Arizona where I'm constantly dealing with cars and trucks throwing stuff back at my Stewie. I have quite a few nicks in the paint because of this. My solution to this problem is to put a bra on my car. I would appreciate it if you guys could tell me the pros and cons to having a bra, besides the fact that it takes away from the look of the car.

Thanks,

José

Dr. Jimbo · 11-09-2007, 05:53 PM

The bra covers the nipples up though.
Oh, for your S. They do have clear, self adhesive sheeting that goes on the front end. I don't know where you get it. Someone here will chime in with the info soon enough. I've seen it and it looks pretty good. Beats pock marks all over the face of your stewie.

Daddy Zach · 11-09-2007, 05:53 PM

Hey,
I had a bra on my last car integra GSR
cons: you should remove the bra each time you wash
I left mine on for a while and got some scratches - no matter how soft the
backing is you still have to use loads of care, took a long time to buff out
pro: I liked how it looked

Cheers

jagg · 11-09-2007, 05:54 PM

!Hola Jose!

back here in the east, most guys will tell you that "no bra" can't be a bad thing. ! es la verdad!

Very Best Regards,
jagg

Jbeni96 · 11-09-2007, 06:01 PM

The problem is that there is so much stuff on the roads here. I feel that if I don't protect the car, I will have to re-paint it soon. Right after I got the car an 18 wheeler got in front of me and sand blasted the front bumper and the windshield. It pissed me off. I have a bunch of nicks on the windshield and the bumper. My insurance covers a windshield replacement, but not re-painting the front bumper.

What are the cons to having a bra? I know that every time the car is washed, it needs to be removed. I can deal with that. What else do I need to consider?

jagg · 11-09-2007, 06:39 PM

Okay, real answer.

the bra will help eliminate stone chips, but the paint on the car over time will become mismatched. I don't know why, something to do with the bright disc we worship in the sky, 'n various other environmental factors.
The clear skin mentioned seems like a viable alternative to a bra...at least from an ultraviolet light penetration standpoint, but you still can suffer the same type paint scuffing that happens with a bra, without diligent care.

Commonsense jagg response: avoid tailgating as much as possible, and cleanse car with soap and water when dirty.

spa01s2k · 11-09-2007, 07:40 PM

The problem with many bras, clear or other, is the paint tends to fade were the bra isn't. Regular bras can cause abrasions in the paint. Clear bras can be installed wrong and make the front of the car look horrible. Bra or no bra, kinda looks like a lose lose situation to me. BTW - I don't have any kind of bra and have accepted that I will eventually repaint.

Like stated above, avoid following close.

DJJSR · 11-09-2007, 08:37 PM

I had to drive the highways of the SF bay area for 8 years and learned something real quick (well not quick enough to avoid replacing 2 windshields). This may sound kinda stupid, but I've found the best way to avoid being blasted is to back off a little or change lanes if you can. It really does help a lot.

I live in a cornfield now so it's not a big problem, but I'm going with Dr. J's recommendation of that 3M clear stuff.

gomarlins3 · 11-09-2007, 09:22 PM

To bad your's is an AP2. I have a Colgan nose mask (brand new) that I would be willing to sell you. It's for an AP1 though.

Java Junky · 11-10-2007, 03:30 AM

I don't know how practical it would be to fit to a large surface without it bein' specifically made for it, but on the bikes we use a clear, protective film that can be adhered right to the paint. Put it on, n' unless you really look, you don't even know it's there.
The garage'z cold n' I'm sittin' here in my skivvies, so the exact info will godda be forthcomin', but, I'm fairly certain that it's a 3M product.
But I've had it on my '99 since new, cut 3 pieces to better wrap aroun' the extreme curves'a the back'a the tank n' the same 3 pieces r' still in place. I treat 'em like the rest'a the bike's surfaces n' they get washed n' waxed (At rather extended intervals) but, still, when most folks look additt, they don't even know it's there.
It does eliminate the chance of abrasion from dirt, findin' it's way behind a bra, bein' rubbed into the paint. I know for a fact that it's readily able to be peeled off without any indication that it was ever there. You might wanna jus' clean up the area it was on n' wax it when you're ready to go without.
I suspect that after prolonged use, even though it's clear, there may be telltale color change in the areas where it was applied, but, after what? Almost 8 years, I haven't noticed any difference in color on my '99.
Like I said, I don't know if they have anything big enough to do a Stewie nose, but it might be worth checkin' out.
Be well.
Java

coty_jim · 11-10-2007, 12:10 PM

There is a set of 3M 8mil clear adhesive selling on eBay pretty cheap. (about $25 inc shipping). I should have bought two sets, since I needed the first set to figure out how to install it. The kit included a pre-cut for the front bumper and pieces (4) for the mirrors. There is a video and written instructions online for it.
try this
www.thexarea.com

I get nothing for the promo, just a partially satisfied customer

By the way, you need to do more than just remove a regular bra at washing time, you also need to clean the backside of the bra of the dirt and road stuff that is there. Reinstalling it with the grime on it will just etch the paint worse than the sandblasting you get without it.

tag · 11-14-2007, 11:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by coty_jim

There is a video and written instructions online for it.
try this
www.thexarea.com

I get nothing for the promo, just a partially satisfied customer

Partially satisfied because you should've bought two sets to figure it out or partially satisfied because the product wasn't as good as you had hoped? I'd like to try this.

H20 · 11-14-2007, 01:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tag

Partially satisfied because you should've bought two sets to figure it out or partially satisfied because the product wasn't as good as you had hoped? I'd like to try this.

It's very inexpensive at about 25 bucks for the complete set but do buy two because installation is a bitch. Or you can have it professionally done for about 600 bucks.
Myself I wouldnt mind the original style bra and if the paint dulls or scratches it can be polished back but chips through the paint cannot be polished back.

kgf3076 · 11-14-2007, 03:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dr. Jimbo

The bra covers the nipples up though.
Oh, for your S. They do have clear, self adhesive sheeting that goes on the front end. I don't know where you get it. Someone here will chime in with the info soon enough. I've seen it and it looks pretty good. Beats pock marks all over the face of your stewie.

It's called 3M Clear Bra and costs about $500 to $600 to do. Well worth the investment.

konachk · 11-15-2007, 01:41 PM

I was looking for the same thing and found this website to have the 3m protection and it's online so you can order it from wherever you are. Not quite sure how easy it is to apply but the skill level says that it's "intermediate". Good Luck!

http://www.stickercity.com/store/home.php?cat=1111

H20 · 11-15-2007, 03:55 PM

How's this for relavent?
http://www.automotivearticles.com/Clear_Bra_3M.shtml

Scooterboy · 11-15-2007, 06:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kgf3076

It's called 3M Clear Bra and costs about $500 to $600 to do. Well worth the investment.

I absolutely agree. I have a 3M clear bra on mine and it is great. I've put 35000 miles since I got it and I have no chips or dings. Spend the money!

fhinner · 11-23-2007, 12:22 PM

I'm located in Texas and use a Colgan Bra. I have looked at the clear sticker stuff, but don't really like it. I believe it is personal taste look wise, but actually like the bra on my black S.

Pro with the Colgan Bra you can take it off. Con you have to when you wash and it adds a couple of extra steps as you will have to clean it.

Pro of the 3M stuff you can wash it off. Con I found they rip, especially at points where you had chips. In addition you have difficulties ever taking it off, I also heard (have not confirmed that myself) that your color under the clear bra ages differently then the rest.

Hope that helps,
Franz

Pablo · 11-23-2007, 05:40 PM

I've put the Colgan Bra on my blue AP2, and I like the look. It matches the black rag top. And I got it on 'ole eBay for a nice price.

Best regards
Pablo

Two Fun · 02-16-2008, 12:45 PM

No bra. I always think that when I see them that the owner has body damage and is trying to hide it.
That's what the hood-rats would do back home. Guess that's always stuck with me for some crazy reason.

fhinner · 02-18-2008, 07:59 PM

Hi Two Fun,

Well, I can tell you that my Colgan has saved me from scratches and other stuff so many times that the money I paid is nothing...
Franz

gomarlins3 · 02-19-2008, 05:36 AM

I still have my Colgan for sale. It's in the box and only been out once to look at it, never installed. $50 shipped if anyone wants it.

kellyinok · 04-20-2008, 05:59 PM

Posting in really late here. But I've been looking for an OEM bra for my Honda Hoover. Apparently they don't make them? I'd prefer to avoid the clear ones. I just want something to put on the front when I have to take long road trips. I hate the chips I've already gotten with just 2,000 miles on my baby.

But I don't want a full form Maiden Form. A Victoria Secret would be better. Any ideas?

htp autoworks · 04-26-2008, 07:33 PM

I install ClearMask out here in California and I am a true beleiver in it. All three of my cars have it on there and I dont have any rock chips. The material is warrantied for as long as you own the vehicle. I highly recommend finding a good installer. And I can tell you that the "$25 kit" on Ebay is garbage. You wont be happy with it. Find a good installer and have it done right. It will eliminate your rock chips and save you from painting the front end... and not have a black leather bra killing the look of the the car. If you have any questions feel free to PM me.

Thom

SXY_S2K · 04-26-2008, 08:32 PM

I have the same problem here in AZ, and I NEVER tailgate, NEVER. I conciously avoid traveling behind cars, avoid construction areas, and do everything I can to help it... Alas, my mirrors, bumper, and windshield are completely chipped/pitted. Too late for a clear bra :'(

philiam · 04-26-2008, 09:03 PM

Too late for a clear bra :'(

Gravity? Oops gotta stop that. Never could resist a straight line!

SXY_S2K · 04-26-2008, 10:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by philiam

Too late for a clear bra :'(

Gravity? Oops gotta stop that. Never could resist a straight line!

LOL Jerk-Face! haha, jk

11-09-2007, 05:48 PM	#1 (permalink)
Jbeni96 Proud Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Posts: 38	Bra or no Bra I live in Arizona where I'm constantly dealing with cars and trucks throwing stuff back at my Stewie. I have quite a few nicks in the paint because of this. My solution to this problem is to put a bra on my car. I would appreciate it if you guys could tell me the pros and cons to having a bra, besides the fact that it takes away from the look of the car. Thanks, José

11-09-2007, 05:53 PM	#3 (permalink)
Daddy Zach Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Great White North Posts: 187	Hey, I had a bra on my last car integra GSR cons: you should remove the bra each time you wash I left mine on for a while and got some scratches - no matter how soft the backing is you still have to use loads of care, took a long time to buff out pro: I liked how it looked Cheers __________________ Black is still the coolest color

11-09-2007, 07:40 PM	#7 (permalink)
spa01s2k Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Littleton, CO Posts: 331	The problem with many bras, clear or other, is the paint tends to fade were the bra isn't. Regular bras can cause abrasions in the paint. Clear bras can be installed wrong and make the front of the car look horrible. Bra or no bra, kinda looks like a lose lose situation to me. BTW - I don't have any kind of bra and have accepted that I will eventually repaint. Like stated above, avoid following close. __________________ 2001 Honda S2000 1991 Honda Prelude 1992 Nissan Pathfinder

11-09-2007, 08:37 PM	#8 (permalink)
DJJSR Philosopher Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Hooterville Posts: 1,249	I had to drive the highways of the SF bay area for 8 years and learned something real quick (well not quick enough to avoid replacing 2 windshields). This may sound kinda stupid, but I've found the best way to avoid being blasted is to back off a little or change lanes if you can. It really does help a lot. I live in a cornfield now so it's not a big problem, but I'm going with Dr. J's recommendation of that 3M clear stuff. __________________ Don

11-09-2007, 09:22 PM	#9 (permalink)
gomarlins3 "Enjoy the drive" Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Kuna Idaho Posts: 2,226	To bad your's is an AP2. I have a Colgan nose mask (brand new) that I would be willing to sell you. It's for an AP1 though. __________________ Happiness is a nice road, great weather, and driving the S with Sue in the seat next to me. "Whatever you do, where ever you go, enjoy the drive." I know for a FACT that the last year of production of the S2000 is 2003!!!!! After that, it will be the S2200 under an assumed name.

11-09-2007, 05:53 PM	#2 (permalink)
Dr. Jimbo Don't taze me bro! Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Santa Barbara, Ca. Posts: 831	The bra covers the nipples up though. Oh, for your S. They do have clear, self adhesive sheeting that goes on the front end. I don't know where you get it. Someone here will chime in with the info soon enough. I've seen it and it looks pretty good. Beats pock marks all over the face of your stewie.

11-09-2007, 05:54 PM	#4 (permalink)
jagg Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: The Endless Mountains Posts: 2,157	!Hola Jose! back here in the east, most guys will tell you that "no bra" can't be a bad thing. ! es la verdad! Very Best Regards, jagg

11-09-2007, 06:01 PM	#5 (permalink)
Jbeni96 Proud Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Posts: 38	The problem is that there is so much stuff on the roads here. I feel that if I don't protect the car, I will have to re-paint it soon. Right after I got the car an 18 wheeler got in front of me and sand blasted the front bumper and the windshield. It pissed me off. I have a bunch of nicks on the windshield and the bumper. My insurance covers a windshield replacement, but not re-painting the front bumper. What are the cons to having a bra? I know that every time the car is washed, it needs to be removed. I can deal with that. What else do I need to consider?

11-09-2007, 06:39 PM	#6 (permalink)
jagg Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: The Endless Mountains Posts: 2,157	Okay, real answer. the bra will help eliminate stone chips, but the paint on the car over time will become mismatched. I don't know why, something to do with the bright disc we worship in the sky, 'n various other environmental factors. The clear skin mentioned seems like a viable alternative to a bra...at least from an ultraviolet light penetration standpoint, but you still can suffer the same type paint scuffing that happens with a bra, without diligent care. Commonsense jagg response: avoid tailgating as much as possible, and cleanse car with soap and water when dirty.

11-10-2007, 03:30 AM	#10 (permalink)
Java Junky Resident Curmudgeon Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Joisey Posts: 4,909	I don't know how practical it would be to fit to a large surface without it bein' specifically made for it, but on the bikes we use a clear, protective film that can be adhered right to the paint. Put it on, n' unless you *really* look, you don't even know it's there. The garage'z cold n' I'm sittin' here in my skivvies, so the exact info will godda be forthcomin', but, I'm fairly certain that it's a 3M product. But I've had it on my '99 since new, cut 3 pieces to better wrap aroun' the extreme curves'a the back'a the tank n' the same 3 pieces r' still in place. I treat 'em like the rest'a the bike's surfaces n' they get washed n' waxed (At rather extended intervals) but, still, when most folks look additt, they don't even know it's there. It does eliminate the chance of abrasion from dirt, findin' it's way behind a bra, bein' rubbed into the paint. I know for a fact that it's readily able to be peeled off without any indication that it was ever there. You might wanna jus' clean up the area it was on n' wax it when you're ready to go without. I suspect that after prolonged use, even though it's clear, there *may* be telltale color change in the areas where it was applied, but, after what? Almost 8 years, I haven't noticed any difference in color on my '99. Like I said, I don't know if they have anything big enough to do a Stewie nose, but it might be worth checkin' out. Be well. Java __________________ In life-long pursuit of that most mythic of beasts: the ever-elusive perfect corner. Well . . . that, r' at least a whole lodda clear spin-out room.

11-10-2007, 12:10 PM	#11 (permalink)
coty_jim old man Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: union, illinois Posts: 5	There is a set of 3M 8mil clear adhesive selling on eBay pretty cheap. (about $25 inc shipping). I should have bought two sets, since I needed the first set to figure out how to install it. The kit included a pre-cut for the front bumper and pieces (4) for the mirrors. There is a video and written instructions online for it. try this www.thexarea.com I get nothing for the promo, just a partially satisfied customer By the way, you need to do more than just remove a regular bra at washing time, you also need to clean the backside of the bra of the dirt and road stuff that is there. Reinstalling it with the grime on it will just etch the paint worse than the sandblasting you get without it.

11-15-2007, 01:41 PM	#15 (permalink)
konachk Junior Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Northern CA Posts: 1	Bra or No Bra I was looking for the same thing and found this website to have the 3m protection and it's online so you can order it from wherever you are. Not quite sure how easy it is to apply but the skill level says that it's "intermediate". Good Luck! http://www.stickercity.com/store/home.php?cat=1111

11-15-2007, 03:55 PM	#16 (permalink)
H20 Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: CT, USA Posts: 292	read all about it How's this for relavent? http://www.automotivearticles.com/Clear_Bra_3M.shtml

11-23-2007, 12:22 PM	#18 (permalink)
fhinner Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Posts: 81	I'm located in Texas and use a Colgan Bra. I have looked at the clear sticker stuff, but don't really like it. I believe it is personal taste look wise, but actually like the bra on my black S. Pro with the Colgan Bra you can take it off. Con you have to when you wash and it adds a couple of extra steps as you will have to clean it. Pro of the 3M stuff you can wash it off. Con I found they rip, especially at points where you had chips. In addition you have difficulties ever taking it off, I also heard (have not confirmed that myself) that your color under the clear bra ages differently then the rest. Hope that helps, Franz

11-23-2007, 05:40 PM	#19 (permalink)
Pablo Sentient Being Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: LI, NY Posts: 448	I've put the Colgan Bra on my blue AP2, and I like the look. It matches the black rag top. And I got it on 'ole eBay for a nice price. Best regards Pablo __________________ Regards, Pablo "If everything seems under control, you're not going fast enough" Mario Andretti

02-16-2008, 12:45 PM	#20 (permalink)
Two Fun Pimp Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Kentucky Posts: 10	No bra. I always think that when I see them that the owner has body damage and is trying to hide it. That's what the hood-rats would do back home. Guess that's always stuck with me for some crazy reason. __________________ Rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal labotamy.

02-18-2008, 07:59 PM	#21 (permalink)
fhinner Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Posts: 81	Hi Two Fun, Well, I can tell you that my Colgan has saved me from scratches and other stuff so many times that the money I paid is nothing... Franz

02-19-2008, 05:36 AM	#22 (permalink)
gomarlins3 "Enjoy the drive" Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Kuna Idaho Posts: 2,226	I still have my Colgan for sale. It's in the box and only been out once to look at it, never installed. $50 shipped if anyone wants it. __________________ Happiness is a nice road, great weather, and driving the S with Sue in the seat next to me. "Whatever you do, where ever you go, enjoy the drive." I know for a FACT that the last year of production of the S2000 is 2003!!!!! After that, it will be the S2200 under an assumed name.

04-20-2008, 05:59 PM	#23 (permalink)
kellyinok kellyinok Join Date: Feb 2008 Posts: 12	Posting in really late here. But I've been looking for an OEM bra for my Honda Hoover. Apparently they don't make them? I'd prefer to avoid the clear ones. I just want something to put on the front when I have to take long road trips. I hate the chips I've already gotten with just 2,000 miles on my baby. But I don't want a full form Maiden Form. A Victoria Secret would be better. Any ideas?

04-26-2008, 07:33 PM	#24 (permalink)
htp autoworks Junior Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Posts: 5	I install ClearMask out here in California and I am a true beleiver in it. All three of my cars have it on there and I dont have any rock chips. The material is warrantied for as long as you own the vehicle. I highly recommend finding a good installer. And I can tell you that the "$25 kit" on Ebay is garbage. You wont be happy with it. Find a good installer and have it done right. It will eliminate your rock chips and save you from painting the front end... and not have a black leather bra killing the look of the the car. If you have any questions feel free to PM me. Thom

04-26-2008, 08:32 PM	#25 (permalink)
SXY_S2K Trqless Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Tempe, AZ Posts: 747	I have the same problem here in AZ, and I NEVER tailgate, NEVER. I conciously avoid traveling behind cars, avoid construction areas, and do everything I can to help it... Alas, my mirrors, bumper, and windshield are completely chipped/pitted. Too late for a clear bra :'( __________________ *Race time. Got to be serious, not stylish.* *www.myspace.com/kesmith3* Last edited by SXY_S2K : 04-26-2008 at 08:36 PM.

04-26-2008, 09:03 PM	#26 (permalink)
philiam Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: woodland hills, CA Posts: 1,106	Too late for a clear bra :'( Gravity? Oops gotta stop that. Never could resist a straight line! __________________