Replacing decals on TT
Removed curling decals and have ordered new ones. Any one have experience with replacing their decals? Removing was terrible until I found the eraser wheel. Piece of cake after that. Thanks for your input.
Forum Discussion
- The decals on my rig are showing their age, some badly. Rather the apply more vinyl, I am thinking of painting them with marine quality paint (Interlux Bightsides). As some dacals are much worse than others, I may re-do the graphics one or two at a time. I have some higher priority items on my to-do list, but I'll get to the graphics someday.
- Here is some good info on installing new decals. I used the center hinge and wet methods and it went pretty smoothly. I did find that it was easier for me to use a wet towel to smooth the new decals than it was using a squeegee. Once the squeegee removed all the surface water, it was hard to drag across the decals for more smoothing and bubble removal. A wet towel easily slid across the decals making bubble removal easier. And the faint outlines from the old decals make placement of the new decals very easy.
- The eraser wheels I bought from www.buyaes.com. Part #AES-51823. They were a breeze. I tried everything else. You'll need to get at least 4 if you're doing the whole unit; of course depending on the area. Buy more, not less. I would not try to place them over old ones but that might work. There will be a faint shadow left after you remove them to place he new ones correctly.
- Thanks 11B! Have a small job and your advice will help tremendously. Army 25A.
Vandave: tell me more about the "eraser wheel" please. Mine are just fading, not curling. Wonder if I can put the new over old? - I learned how to apply vinyl decals from a friend with a professional sign shop in a major city. After starting with a clean surface, remove the back side of the decal. Then use a spray bottle with water and a small amount of dishwashing solution (like Dawn) to spray both the surface of the rig and the back of the decal. While thoroughly wet and soapy, gently press the decal to the surface. The water and soap will allow you to slide the decal into position.
A plastic squeegee can be used to squeeze the excess water out of the decal and permanently affix it to the rig. use an Exacto knife or small pin to pop any bubbles you can't remove with the squeegee to lay them flat.
I've applied lots of vinyl graphics and this method seems to work the best. Good luck!
