Ralph Cramden wrote:
ScottG wrote:
So I firmly believe it's UV that damages
It most certainly is UV. Along with the fact that RV manufacturers get graphics from the lowest irresponsible bidder, who uses generic vinyl and not 3M or Oracal branded material that has a much longer life where UV is concerned. When an RV manufacturer let's a contract for graphics it's for X amount for a given period of production based on model. When those are gone, they're usually gone and is the reason when a manufacturer is contacted about replacements they either don't have them or the price is astronomical. The vendor that provided them is usually out of business by that point, or if not have trashed all the templates when they were not the lowest irresponsible bidder next go around.
you are right. the rv manufacturer will want the lowest price possible. this means the graphics supplier will look at ways to cut the cost by using inferior vinyl or not protecting the printed inks. on any front graphics you would hope the vendor uses a UV clearcoat or laminate. you can usually tell that was used because it has a very very light amount of yellow.
what's worse is some vendors don't mention anything to the manufacturers. and you're also right that these same vendors that received hundreds of thousands in graphics orders don't want to reproduce any replacement graphics unless they charge a lot.
getting back to the care of graphics, meguiar's and chemical guys have developed products to help with the care and longevity of vinyl graphics. check them out and see which is better for your needs.
