Auto Transport Protective Film

[schwarz633]

I'm going to be transporting an Audi TT on a UHaul tandem axle car trailer for about 125 miles in a couple of days and have been reading about possible damage from sand, and maybe even salt here in Wisconsin. The car is 14 years old, but in very good condition, so I would like to minimize any further damage. I started to look at the products that are available for this purpose, but they are pretty pricey, especially if I have to next day air it, as they're not available locally.

I've turned to my trusty local Menards web site and found some Surface Shields Carpet Protector. It's 2 mils thick, 24" x 50' for less than $12. It says it won't leave any adhesive residue, but that's on carpet of course. I figured I'd cover the front and the windshield, maybe throw some on the mirrors.

Anybody have any experience with this low buck solution?

[john70t]

Apply some carnuba wax and rainx first and don't worry about it.

[mikeferg75]

Buy a roll of Blue painters tape and go to town on the front end and mirrors ect. Easy, cheap, done.

[Nostril Cheese]

+1 on painters tape.

[ckelly78z]

Even in bad weather, no matter what, the car will get dirty, and need a wash when stopped. No matter what you do don't use a fabric or plastic that can flap in the wind (effectively grinding the salt and sand into the finish. I think the painters tape could be applied easily and removed in a jiffy with no grit or dampness underneath.

[Cooper911SC]

You're over thinking it for such a short tow. (I mean this in the nicest possible way)😃

I install clear bra paint protection film for a living.

The carpet protector and blue painters tape are too thin to offer much in the way of protection from impact.

PPF is 8 Mils thick. The tape and carpet film are around 2-3mils.

Best bang for your buck is the carpet film applied in 2-3 layers.

Hope your tow goes smoothly.

Cooper.

[cstreit]

....or use contact paper...

...but if you have the time, the clear paint protection film is awesome.

[javadog]

Any reason you can't just drive the car?

JR

[onewhippedpuppy]

I can't see the reason for concern. Would you hesitate to drive the car 125 miles? Trailering one is no worse.

[NY65912]

Shrink wrap as in packing type?

[schwarz633]

2001 with 52K miles on original timing belt (interference engine). I test drove it, but at that time is wasn't my problem if it broke. After it's mine, I won't risk driving it until I've addressed that issue.

From what I've read, the tow vehicle kicks up road debris, so it is a little different than just driving it, unless you're a tailgater I guess.

[bell]

I have used "crash wrap" for many things, awesome product, quick and easy to stock on and doesn't hurt the paint.....