Stripes or Decals

The stripes and decals adhere to a painted surface using pressure sensitive adhesive.

The use of a wetting solution aids the technician in lifting and positioning the stripe or decal during the installation. The wetting solution ensures a better bond between the stripe or decal and the panel assembly. Use a wetting solution when applying large stripe and decal packages.

Complete the following procedures before you apply a stripe or a decal:

• Metal repair or refinishing after a collision
• Painting the underlying surface

Maintain a temperature 21-38°C (70-100°F) on the body surfaces and the decals prior to installation. The decal requires auxiliary heat sources in order to warm the body surfaces and decals. If the temperature is below 21°C (70°F) the decal may not adhere to the body surface properly.

Important:  You may apply stripes or decals using the dry method. Use the wet method if the dry method does not result in a bubble free application. This may be the case in large graphics packages.

Use the wet method in order to apply the stripes or decals that are applied to flexible surfaces (fascias, etc.). This will reduce the formation of bubbles under the decal due to the outgassing potential of the flexible materials.

Use the following equipment and materials in order to apply a stripe or a decal:

• A wetting solution

  A foaming type of window cleaner that does not contain ammonia.

• A silicone, wax and grease remover
• Varnish Makers and Painters (VM&P) naphtha
• Isopropyl alcohol
• A squeegee
  • 75-100 mm (3-4 in) wide
  • Made of plastic or hard rubber

    Remove the burrs from any sharp or rough edges in order to prevent scratching of the stripe or decal.

• A water bucket and sponge or spray bottle
• Sandpaper
  • 800 grit or finer
  • Wet or dry type
• A heat gun or heat lamp
• A clean, lint-free wiping cloth
• A sharp knife or razor blade
• A pair or scissors
• A fine pin or needle
• A marking pencil