Application
Guide
For optimum results, surface temperature should be above 50°F
and below 90°F. You will need a ruler, masking tape, scissors,
lint free cloth, a surface cleaner.
Step 1:
After determining the location for your graphic, clean the
surface with a lint free cloth and cleaner solution..
Step
2:
Using small strips of masking tape, locate the graphic where
it is to be installed. If the graphic has a horizontal edge
or reference point, you can use this for measuring the location
from a body line or trim molding. If the decal has a flowing
design, you'll have to step back and visually inspect its
location to determine if that is where you want it. Once this
is done, make measurements from individual points on the design
and transfer the locations to the opposite side of your Model.
( This is the step you need to take your time on, measure
from different locations, once the graphic is installed, it
cannot be moved).
Step
3:
Place two strips of masking tape (slightly overlapping each
other) vertically in the approximate center of the graphic.
This is known as the "hinge" method. This will allow
you to install half of your decal at a time.
Step
4:
Remove the masking tape strips from one end of the decal and
slowly peel the backing paper away, taking care not to touch
the adhesive side of the graphic. Use scissors to remove the
backing paper and discard.
Step 5: Wet application (Large Graphics Only)
Spray
the surface where the backing paper has been removed with
a "slip" solution. Do this on the vehicle surface
as well. Slowly swing the exposed part of the decal onto the
wet surface, keeping only enough tension on it to avoid wrinkles.
As the decal meets the surface, squeegee from center to ends
using semi circular, overlapping motions to push the air from
underneath. There is no need to use excessive pressure because
the slip solution serves as a lubricant for the air to be
pushed outward.
Slip Solution: 32 oz. Sprayer filled with clean tap water
and 1 (one) drop of dish detergent. Make sure you don't use
too much soap or you will have difficulty removing the masking
paper after installation.
Step 5: Dry application (Small Decals ie: 4x4, Sport,
Limited Edition)
Slowly
swing the exposed part of the decal on to the surface, keeping
only enough tension on it to avoid wrinkles. As the decal
meets the surface, squeegee from center to ends using semi
circular, overlapping motions to push the air from underneath.
Use moderate pressure to insure good adhesion.
Step 6:
Slowly
remove the center hinge and very carefully peel the remaining
backing paper away. Just as before, swing the decal over and
squeegee it down using the same motions described above. Resqueegee
the entire surface of the graphic again to insure all areas
have adhered.
Step 7:
Remove
the application tape by pulling it back at a 180° angle.
Make sure to watch the decal to make sure it's not lifting
from the surface. If the graphic seems to be lifting, gently
push the application tape back in the opposite direction that
you were removing it and resqueegee that area. NOTE: If too
much detergent is used in the slip solution, or surface temperature
is cold, you may have to wait for several minutes to allow
drying time before removing the application tape.
Step 8:
Once
the decal is installed and the application tape removed, carefully
inspect the area for bubbles. In the case of very small air
bubbles, usually they will pass through the vinyl within a
couple weeks. Larger bubbles may need to be removed, puncturing
them with a pin or needle at the edge and softly pushing the
air out towards the puncture.
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