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Decal prep

Firehound

Active member
177
102
43
Location
New Caney, TX
I'm about to put some decals and markings on my M35A2C. It is a 1988 vintage, probably original paint. Will just a good wash and wipe with isopropyl alcohol be good enough for making sure the decals stick and hold, or should I use something else?
 

67Beast

Well-known member
963
445
63
Location
Silver Lake Sand Dunes MI.
A lot will depend on the surface of the paint. If it is the flat CARC paint, then don't plan on the decals lasting too long as the rough flat surface just doesn't make for a good surface. If it is a smoother semi-gloss then you will have no problems. Cleaning the surface free of oils and waxes will make for the best chance for them to stick well. I always try and recommend using paint masks and painting the markings for people who have trucks done in CARC.
 

ArmoredCTP

Member
22
48
13
Location
Waukesha/Wisconsin
Unless the CARC's finish is so rough that it actually has protruding bumps or extremely thick texture, I wouldn't think that decals won't stick. Vinyl decals should stick pretty well.

In any event, prepping with alcohol is a good idea. I would also suggest spraying some very soapy water onto the surface before applying the decal. This allows you to adjust it without worrying about having to get it perfect in one go. For large decals, remember to have something you can use as a squeegee, like one of those Bondo spatulas sold at Walmart. Use that to force water out toward the edges once you get it perfectly centered. You also eliminate air bubbles, because those same bubbles are now just filled with water and will be forced out with your squeegee.

Just gently set the decal down onto the soapy wet surface, and carefully, slowly use the squeegee to force the water out, starting from the center working your way out.
 

JCKnife

Well-known member
1,367
46
48
Location
Kentucky
Where's a good source for Deuce decals these days? I'm FINALLY going to finish my paint job this spring and I'll be looking for some. Decals or stencils.
 
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