Per I-CAR curriculum: "Masking and removing parts is often required to complete repairs. When applying clearcoat, it is recommended it be applied from edge to edge of each panel being finished. Vehicle and paint maker warranties often require the clearcoat application to fully cover the panel surface. If a business decision is made to blend the clearcoat within the panel it is important to remove and install some parts instead of masking them."

Check out the I-CAR Collision Repair News article: Back-To-Basics: Masking vs. Removing