Originally Posted by IsleRide

I don't see the need. I try to make sure that the clamped components are placed accurately so no fiddling is required. Paint can be slightly marred but unlikely broken.
If it's something like an umbrella pump clamp that may be removed at some point then I'll protect the finish.

BTW great job ts99 on the full repaint on your Trek. I'm refurbishing a '79 710 in the same color. Paint is very nice except on the underside of the drive side chain stay.
I had the color scanned at a local auto paint supply and they made up an aerosol can for me. Haven't tried it yet but looks to be a good match. (test sample) Had I seen your earlier thread I would have known about the 44437 code but I'm confident the scanned color will be right for blending in a 40 year old finish.