I know this is an old topic, but I can't see a real answer. I am having the rear wings replaced soon (rust inner and starting on the outer) and I don't want to keep the rubber arch lip protector (74430-SM4-A00)

Has anyone used a paint protection film or rubber paint on the lip? I was thinking a 3M type PPF around it would stop any chips from stones etc.

 

The rubber arch protector is a common source of rust on many Hondas that use them as it traps moisture and debris. I took mine off the S2000 as soon as I got the car. This is what I did on my S2000 for peace of mind:

I first cleaned the entire inside lip of the arch completely around the entire circumference. I applied some rust prevention primer on the inside surface with a brush, don't need to worry about being messy. I then top coated with rubberized rocker guard on the inside surfaces. I also put on some of the rubberized rocker guard coating on the outward facing surface/lip, with two coats. I applied it with a foam roller to give it a neat appearance rather than spraying it on. It worked well for me , and the coating can be easily touched up whenever needed if road debris causes abrasion. A couple coats initially would be a good idea. I also get the bumper mounting tabs coated as once those things rust out the bumper attachment is affected. On the inside wheel arch lip I will follow up with a creeping type of rust proofing spray well after the rubberized rocker guard has cured, rust is the worst thing I could ever see on my cars and I would rather go over-board to protect them where possible.

I guess protection film might work as well if you can get it to adhere and you could go with clear material if you don't want the black look of the rocker coating I used.

The panel metal just behind the front wheels is very susceptible to road abrasion, the front of the front quarter panel that faces the front wheel. I also treat that area the same way repairing stone chips first , then applying protection. I also put on those carbon fiber mudguards in that location to reduce future abrasion, there is also a DIY for home made mud guard protection which works well.

 

I am moving over from an NC MX5, is it easy to remove bumpers on the S2000? on an MX5 for example, once you know what you are doing, its about 30 minutes. I am only asking so that we can take off the bumpers and be more proactive in sealing those areas that are known for rusting. My car will also be stored in an underground parking where humidity may be a bit higher so need to be very careful with being very proactive on rust.