(slaps forehead)
YES, I should have put the 3M clear bra on before leaving the lot
last December. Live in CO, we use sand instead of salt on our
winter roads..drove cross country this summer...

*sigh* I got the touch-up paint and got a closer look at the hood.
TONS of tiny chips..some larger. Grrrrrr

Should I repaint the hood now or wait till the spring? I am driving to
NY in December..another 1700 miles. How long does it take for the paint
to set before you can apply the coating?

Sad in Denver

 

You should be fine still as long as it doeasn't get too cold. Although repainting the hood can be a negative on resale. I also live in Denver. if you get the clear mask have them do the flat part of the front bumper and the back of the mirrors also.