Installing tail stripes decals

[Jasoncoronet]

Going to be installing some decals or stickers on 68 coronet. Has anybody used that lube gel that phoenix graphics sells. Looks like it would make things easier. Any pointers or tips will be put to good use.

Thanks guys!!!!

 

[HawkRod]

I have never used lube gel, and I have installed several stripes. The most recent is on a Mustang - see attached picture. These stripes are complex to put on, especially when trying to "bend" the flat stripe on to the hood scoop.

Anyway, all I have ever used is a good solution of water and soap and it works great. Add about a 1 1/2 tsp liquid soap to about a quart of water. Then I use a soft, new Bondo plastic paddle or something similar). CLEAN, CLEAN, CLEAN the car decal area. Be sure the decal fits properly. Peel the paper off of the sticky side of the decal (not the top side), and then spray the soap/water solution LIBERALLY on the decal (both sides) and the car. Use a lot of solution. Then float the decal on the car and you will be able to slide it around the car until it it placed where you want it. Then use the squeegee (Bondo paddle) and start drawing it from the center of the decal towards the edges. This will get the water out. Don't try to get all the water out on your first squeegee - go slow. Apply gentle pressure and go over the decal areas again and again to get more and more water out. Work any bubble areas towards the edges before you "seat" the decal down too much.

When the decal is on the car, carefully pull the top paper off of the stripe and check the stripe. Squeegee a bit more if you must, but be sure the squeegee is not scratching the decal.

If you have any stubborn bubbles that won't come out, use a pin in the center of the bubble. Let the car dry for a couple of days and it should be fine.

Good luck!

(OK, before anyone flames me, I KNOW I included a picture of a Ford. Leave it be - it's OK! :icon_wink