Removal Procedure
Tools Required
• | Wetting solution, use a foaming type window cleaner that does
not contain ammonia |
• | Varnish Makers and Painters (VMP) naphtha |
• | A squeegee 100 mm (4 in) wide, plastic or hard rubber |
| Deburr any sharp or rough edges on the squeegee to prevent scratching
of the stripe or decal |
• | Water bucket and sponge or spray bottle |
• | Sandpaper - 800 grit or finer, wet or dry type |
• | Clean, lint-free wiping cloth |
• | Scissors, a sharp knife, or a razor blade |
• | Marking pencil, masking tape |
Important: Stripes and decals adhere to the painted surfaces using pressure sensitive
adhesive. The use of a wetting solution aids in lifting and positioning the
stripe or decal during installation. A wetting solution also ensures a
better bond between the stripe or decal and the panel. Repair and refinish
operations must be completed before the stripe or decal is installed. Freshly
painted surfaces must be allowed to dry thoroughly. Solvents in freshly
painted surfaces can lead to subsequent blistering problems if the stripe
or decal is applied before the paint is completely dry. The striping material
highlights vehicle surface imperfections. All panel surface imperfections,
paint defects, and uneven two-tone paint break lines must be eliminated
before the stripe or decal application.
• | Body surfaces and decals must be maintained between 21 to 38°C
(70 to 100°F) during installation. |
• | Never apply decals when body surface and decal temperatures are
below 21°C (70°F). |
• | Stripes and decals may be applied dry to some surfaces however
the wet method is preferred. |
• | Stripes or decals that are applied to flexible surfaces such as
fascias must be applied using the wet method. The wet method will help reduce
the formation of bubbles under the stripe or decal. |
- Remove any moldings, handles, lamps, clips, or other parts overlapping
the stripe or decal.
- Wash and clean; the repair surfaces, adjacent panels, and openings
as required.
- Remove the stripe or decal from the body panel using 3M™
Scotch Brite molding adhesive remover disk, 3M P/N 07501, or equivalent.
- Remove all traces of adhesive residue from the painted surfaces
with a Varnish Makers and Painters VMP naphtha.
Installation Procedure
- Remove any imperfections that would show through the stripe or
decal.
- Clean the painted surface with Varnish Makers and Painters VMP
naphtha.
- Clean the area where the stripe or decal will be applied with
a 50/50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol and water.
- Wipe the panel surface with a clean cloth while the solvent is
still wet and allow the panel to dry.
- Tape or mark a guide line on the adjacent surface if necessary
to aid in installation of the stripe or decal.
- Apply the wetting solution to the area where the stripe or decal
is to be installed.
- Remove the backing material of the stripe or decal as necessary.
Do not touch the adhesive backing of the stripes or the decal.
- Apply wetting solution to both sides of the stripe or decal.
The wetting solution will allow movement of the stripe or decal for
proper positioning.
- Apply the stripe or decal to the panel.
- Working from the center where possible, squeegee the stripe or
decal into position.
The application of additional soapy wetting solution to the top side
of the stripe or decal will ease the pull of the squeegee and help to eliminate
damage to the stripe or decal.
- Apply heat to the stripe or decal at any recessed areas.
Press the stripe or decal into the recess to obtain a firm bond.
- Inspect the stripe or decal from critical angles using adequate
light reflection to detect any irregularities that may have developed during
installation.
- Remove all air bubbles by piercing with a fine pin or needle.
• | Pierce the outer edge of the bubble. |
• | Never use a razor blade or knife edge to pierce a bubble. |
• | Force the air out from the opposite edge of the bubble with the
blade of a squeegee. |
- Install any previously removed parts.