I have done the same on my ce .
I saw the demo machine in Australia had dimples all over it after it was finished at an expo . It was really bad I couldn't believe how bad it was . So I believe that's the best option .

Protectors play like garbage and look horrible once they get scratched up. Play pinball and stop babying these things

Wacky is correct. Have a little fun in life, don;t worry so much.

Don't need a protector. If your worried about damage just wax it every 2 hours...

Amen guys. PF Protectors are a waste

Get yours restored to better than new once you wear it out

The only pin I own that has a protector installed is the one I gifted my mom, she is in Germany, half a globe away.
There is no way I can teach her how to remove the glass and clean/wax/new balls.

Hence the protector, I rather have her grind that one into pieces with worn balls and grim all over than the clear.

But otherwise I would not ever consider it. I listen to all of Chris' (Ks) podcasts, why he had Chris from Cointaker install a protector on his BM66CE is beyond me.

I own two Iron Man, one with mom, one here in my collection.
Hence I believe I am in a good position to compare the two playfields head to head.
My opinion: stay away - unless you are mom and do not know how to maintain a decent playfield and replace balls every now and then.

Its like sex with a condom.....and please, your "your mom" jokes I do not need to hear now...I know I set myself up for them, hahaha.....

Wasn't thinking your mom.

Buy an extra playfield if you are worried about it. Either way when the used price drops to $8000 fairly fast, you will realize the protectors were a waste.

I think you should leave it in the box and then buy a larger box to protect your box. Then you're safe.