Protection from stone chips

[bobs409]

I use my truck all year long and after this harsh winter, I noticed the paint is badly chipped and starting to rust on the front lower area of the step plates on my 69 short stepside. (probably other areas too but im afraid to look!) This was just painted at the end of summer.

Is there some type of clear plastic like sticker or similar that could be applied over the paint in these high wear areas to protect them. My rockers are also taking a beating from getting in and out of the truck. I think it's going to be impossible to keep paint on these and still drive the thing...

Paint is nice but you sure do have to baby your truck afterward. I almost miss the days of flat paint and primer! LOL

On another sad note, my repro tailgate is showing signs of rust where the seams are. Any ideas on how to keep this from happening? Maybe a thin bead of 3-M's fast-n-firm sealer before the paint?

I live in Pa. and this year has been nothing but salt on top of salt and with plenty of cinders mixed in. What a mess! Unfortunatly, this is my daily driver so...

Any tips/suggestions are welcome.