Decal and Stripe Replacement: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Pontiac Montana, 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette, and 2002 Chevrolet Venture. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

A pressure sensitive adhesive adheres the stripes and decals to the painted surfaces.

Use a wetting solution in order to lift and position the stripe or decal during installation.

A wetting solution ensures a better bond between the stripe or decal and the panel assembly.

If the metal or underlying painted surfaces are damaged, repair and refinish the metal as needed before you install the stripes or decals.

NOTE: Striping material highlights vehicle surface imperfection. All dings, rough metal, paint defects and uneven two-tone paint breaklines must be eliminated before stripe/decal application. Freshly painted surfaces must be allowed to dry thoroughly before installing stripe or decal. Residual solvents in fresh painted surfaces can lead to subsequent blistering problems if stripe or decal is applied before complete release of solvents

Maintain body surface and decal temperature between 21-38°C (70 - 100°F) during installation.

Important: DO NOT apply the decals when the body surface and the decal temperatures are below 21°C (70°F).

Use auxiliary heat sources to warm the body surface and decals if the temperature is less than 21°C (70°F).

NOTE: Use of harsh chemicals when cleaning can damage exterior lamps. Suggested cleaners are a mild soap and water, or Varnish Makers and Painters (VM&P) Naptha. VM&P Naptha is a specific type of naptha and should not be substituted by any other naptha

Important: When you apply stripes or decals on flexible surfaces (fascias, etc.), use the WET method. The WET method reduces the formation of bubbles under the decal due to the outgassing potential of the flexible materials.

You may apply stripes and decals dry. If the stripe or decal shows bubbles, use the "wet" method. Use the "wet" method for large graphics packages.

The following equipment and materials, or the equivalent, are necessary when making a quality stripe or decal installation:

Wetting solution foaming type window cleaner that does not contain ammonia
Silicone, wax and grease remover
Varnish Makers and Painters (VM&P) naphtha
Isopropyl alcohol
Squeegee about 75-100 mm (3-4 in) wide, plastic or hard rubber. Deburr any sharp or rough edges in order to prevent scratching of the stripe or decal
Water bucket and sponge or spray bottle
Sandpaper 800 grit or finer, wet or dry type
Heat gun
Clean, lint-free wiping cloth
Sharp knife or razor blade
Scissors
Fine pin or needle
Marking pencil