Trem post installation questions

[Audiowonderland]

Is it better to install the trem posts before or after paint? As long as the holes are paint free, I am thinking after would be the better option.

I am looking for ideas to keep paint out of the various holes in the baddy during finishing. I was considering using foam ear plugs for the trem posts. I am confident it would keep paint out, but would removing them damage the finish? Has anyone tried this or have other suggestions?

 

[NedRyerson]

Trem studs and posts after finishing. I use painter's tape to protect the holes (like stuffing them with wadding). Tape is cheap, and has less risk of foam earplugs dissolving if coming into contact with some component of the finish.

 

[Audiowonderland]

I will need to tape the neck cavity etc anyway so thats simple enough to do.