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The new year is here as is the time for new motorcycles and graphics. Here's how to get your graphics looking good and lasting as long as possible:
1. Remove all dirt, lint, oils and old adhesives from your plastics. You may need to use a contact cleaner to completely remove adhesives from previous decals. Rinse with plain water to remove any contact cleaner residue and dry with a tack-rag or lint-free cloth.
NOTE - New plastics generally have a very thin coat of oil from the factory. If they aren't cleaned well, your graphics will most likely not adhere well and bubble within a short period of time! Remember to use an alcohol-based solvent or you may use a Scotch-brite pad to "score" the plastics.
2. To get a general idea of where to place your decal on the plastic, hold the decal against the plastic and gauge how the decal will fit before removing the backing from the decal.
3. Remove the decal from the backing and select a starting point on your plastic to begin adhering the decal. A good starting place is a sharp point on the edge of the plastic, using bolt holts to align the remainder of the graphic.
4. Align your decal along the longest horizontal point and gently, lightly press the decal into place from point to point.
NOTE - If you've misaligned the decal, simply use small tugs to completely remove it and start over.
5. Once your horizontal alignment is even, begin to work the decal into place in small sections moving outward from the horizontal line. Working upwards or downwards, gently pressing the decal into place smoothing any creases or bubbles out as you work.
NOTE - You may use a hair dryer to LIGHTLY heat the decal. Only a little heat is needed, too much may ruin the vinyl of the decal.
NOTE - If you run into a crease or bubble you can't work out, peel the graphic back to just before the crease's starting point. Use small, gentle tugs to peel the graphic back off the plastic. Never "rip" the decal off.
6. Once your decal is installed, wait 24 hours before washing or using to allow the decal's adhesive to properly bond to the plastic.
NOTE - Some people find that using a very fine water mist on the plastic allows for the decal to move around the plastic for a longer period of time during application. You may find that this method suits you; however, we strongly suggest that you make sure all water is squeegee'd out from under the decal at completion. Otherwise, your decals may bubble and peel prematurely. You'll also need to wait an additional 24 hours (48 hours total) for curing when this method is used.
As always, feel free to call us for help!
877.398.1363
RevGrafx
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