Installing Side Trim After Paint

[Belle66]

Hello All,
Well, looks like the 66 Belvedere II is getting paint in about 2 weeks. Was wondering if there are any tricks, tips or procedures for installing the side trim on a freshly painted (base/clear) car. I fear chipping or otherwise damaging the paint as the trim is snapped into place. I'm thinking that taping some paper where the trim edges contact the taping would help. Any ideas, or experiences are welcome.... please.

Thanks in Advance,
Joel

 

[BarrsRestoration]

Sometimes paper or tape can get pinned by the trim, so stay about 1/8" away and that may help.
If it's rocker moldings you're doing, get an extra pair of hands to help, and be sure you have it centered between the wheel opening moldings. Hang the trim on the upper edge of the clip and one at a time roll it downward until it snaps over the bottom of the clip. Don't try and push it over the entire clip or you will bend your trim, you have to start at the top edge. Reason for starting at the top, if it slips it goes away from the car. Start at the bottom and it slips pulling it up, you just scratched your paint.
When putting on new emblems or letters, before installing on the car always thread the nuts all the way down and remove again. The reason is that when cutting new threads you have resistance. With threads cut, you know instantly when the nut is tight enough. Otherwise you may over tighten the nut and break or strip the stud.
With fresh paint it's also easy to bulge it around lettering as it sinks down. Avoid doing that by going easy on the torque.
Wheel opening moldings-always start with the top center screw working away and start all before tightening. Tighten at top first and work out as you fit the molding snug.
Bumpers-I tape the edges. Anywhere the bumper goes, the edges can't hurt the paint. Plus no risk of pulling paint off if you have it on the bumper.
Any of that help?

 

[Belle66]

Wow, I'd say that is the definitive answer. Thanks! I reckon you've done this once or twice before

 

[BarrsRestoration]

Way more times than I could ever count. And you're welcome! Good luck with it.