Gaskets for paint protection

[Chuckin]

Does anyone use really thin gasket/padding material before adding parts to painted areas in order to protect the paint? Such as between:
--Top radiator arms and painted radiator support
--Brake booster mounting bracket and painted firewall
--Hood latch and paint
--etc

I'm just afraid to chip my new shiny paint, but also don't want a squeaky truck either.

If so, what material do you recommend?

[WarMonger]

Not that i know of, but if you go to a off road motorcycle parts place (like cycle gear) you can get clear vinyl, with a 3m adhesive on the back. It is a clear protector stuff. That would work.

[FirstOwner69]

Not in those locations. However, I did use very thin rubber washers on the studs for the trim mounting clips. They protect the paint around the studs as well as isolate the trim from the body slightly so it doesn't dig into the paint. In fact, I think the original clips had a very thin gasket material washer on the studs. I'm probably the only one who would notice.

I think the 3M material WarMonger mentioned is also available at places that sell skis (referred to as ski protector) and is also what the clear vehicle front end bra material is made of. GM also uses it to protect paint adjacent to tires on some trucks and cars.

[Chuckin]

I like it. I think I will apply both of these methods. Thin washers for the trim, clear vinyl for the parts I mentioned.
Thanks guys. Let me know if anyone has any more ideas.