Proper care of RV decals . . . Is there such a thing?

[smokeylew]

Recently purchased a 5th wheel with most of the graphics replaced a year or so ago. Looks great but the rest of the surface needed a good waxing. Used Meguiar's Flagship Premium Marine Wax. Hand rubbed the wax on over decals and all. Now I've heard that I shouldn't have covered the decals with the wax. I was told the petroleum distillate in the wax will over time cause the edges on the graphics to curl up.

Well what's done is done. But what's the best procedure for shining up the RV without damaging the graphics?

[Oasisbob]

I wax over mine once a year. Yes, they are beginning to decay around the edges. I think it's age much like myself.

[DutchmenSport]

It doesn't last long, but it works nice and easy to apply.... Pledge furniture polish. Spray on, wipe off. Of course, after the second rain it's pretty much gone, but sure makes it shiny, easy to apply and does help. Just not long term.

I traded our suburban for our first duly pick-up truck. Before negotiating a trade in value, I washed the suburban and then gave it a Pledge furniture polish wax shine. The dealer couldn't believe how nice the finish looked! I got top dollar for the trade, and "got out of Dodge" before it rained! So far, on my current trailer, it doesn't seem to hurt the graphics. (almost 4 years now).

[Homer1]

It is true decals are temperamental to petroleum distillates in waxes. It is particularly a problem today with manufacturers using so many graphics on their RVs.

There are some waxes out there that do not have petroleum distillates in them. Most are 100% carnuba. Detail shops and Marine supply places usually have them.

[missourijan]

Yea, I've heard that too. There are a couple of products you can use on the graphics, one being 303 protectant. Others can chime in on their recommendation. Use wax only on the fiberglass/gel coat.