Decal Application

[boomyr]

My old lower fairing spoiler needed replaced, and the new one came painted, ready to install, but without the decal graphics that the original had.

The decals are about $50 for the pair, so after going about a year without them and getting used to the idea of spending that kinda dough for stickers, I finally decided it just wasn't natural to not have them on the bike, so I coughed up the money and went ahead and bought them.

I got one side on, but not without boogering them up a bit trying to stay straight on the edge, and trying to make all the necesary curves at the same time.

I'm working on the one I put on already, and I might reorder that one if I can't get it cleaned up decent and take it to a professional, but first I thought I'd post it and see if anyone had experience, ideas, tricks and tips on putting these on without it looking like a butcher job. :type

[BradfordBenn]

When I put the reflective vinyl stickers on my system cases, I found the key was to use lots and lots of water.

[boomyr]

Thank's Brad!

I've heard of something similar using Windex sprayed on the object before appying the decal and it will allow you to move it around and put it into place, then let it dry. I did a google search before I started to try and find info on that technique, but I didn't find anything supporting that, and I didn't remember where I heard it from and was not sure of the details. I was concerned that the adhesive might be compromised.

I assume that you are getting the bags wet with water, then applying the decals while the bags are wet?

I've put pretty large size decals on my Snap-on truck, but that was a flat and straight surfaced. The decals on the bike have "thrown me a few curves". :)

[lorazepam]

Any way to take a straight pin and poke the bubbles and squegee out the air pockets? It might be worth a try. Just dont push too hard and tear them at the pinhole.

[BradfordBenn]

Yup just lots of water on the bags, on the decals, on me, on the floor, on the dogs that were tryng to "help"... :brad

[boomyr]

I decided to try Brad's idea. Before I could get started, I had to go find a dog.
:D

It turned out to be pretty good advice. I applyed the decal for the other side tonight with MUCH less trouble. I picked up a few other tips digging around for info.

I used a squirt sprayer to spray a light soap solution with dishsoap, and got it good and wet.
Peel of the back of the decal and then you can move it around to get it in place.
Use a body shop BONDO applicator as a squeege to work out the air pockets.
Let it dry about an hour, then remove the backing from the face of the decal.

I have a couple little spots I need to work out, but overall it went pretty smooth.

Thanks for the tips Brad and lorazepam! :clap :thumb