Top attachment damaging the paint

[Broncosaurus Rex]

I’m wondering what you guys do to keep the top front bolt attachments from damaging the paint on the frame? Are there protective stick-ons I can buy?

 

[Bschurr]

I’m wondering what you guys do to keep the top front bolt attachments from damaging the paint on the frame? Are there protective stick-ons I can buy?

I haven’t noticed that on mine but I would suggest:
1 - paint that area so it doesn’t rust (or use the old clear nail polish trick)
2 - a plastic washer to sit between the metal and attachment point.
3 - tighten that bolt more because the missing paint is from rubbing which means there was some movement.

I also noticed a little nick in the paint between the attachment points on both sides which is a bit unusual - check your top and see what may be causing that too. (Perhaps an aftermarket accessory, lose bolt or missing trim?)

 

[Broncosaurus Rex]

Thanks. I tighten the bolts down snug. I don’t have any additions so I don’t know what could be causing the chipping.

 

[JohnGalt]

3 - tighten that bolt more because the missing paint is from rubbing which means there was some movement.

everything within it’s limit. Service manual torque spec on those bolts is 106 in/lbs (9 ft/lb). Interestingly, the user manual says 15 ft/lb (+/- 2ft/lb). In either case, leave the breaker bar in the tool box

Also in the User Manual….”Note: Do not overtighten the fasteners. You can strip the fasteners if they are overtightened.”