Decal Removing/Applying Question

[SkiWhiz]

Hi folks I have a new to me Tesoro Bandito uMax II on its way to me that I am getting from a forum member. He said it is in great working condition but the side decals are not so nice. He told me that he ordered new side decals from Tesoro and when he gets them he is shippnig them out to me. My question is what is the best way to put the new decals on (I have never done it). Do I put them over the old ones/try to get the old ones off then put the new ones on/will the old ones comes off easy..... Thanks! Steve.

 

[froggy38383]

I would strongly suggest removing the old ones, if they are cracked or peeling. This can be done by carefully scraping them off with a putty knife with rounded corners which will not dig in to the surface. A bit of heat from a hair dryer can be applied to soften the decal material. Once the old decals are peeled off, use some MILD solvent to clean any excess glue residue form the surface. Then some mild soap and water should be used to clean the surface thoroughly.

The key is to make sure the surface is CLEAN and DRY before applying new decals.

Once this is done the new decals can be applied in the same spot.

 

[SkiWhiz]

Thanks for the info Froggy, when you say (MILD solvent to clean any excess glue residue) what do you mean by mild solvent, I mean what kind should I get. Thanks again. Steve.

 

[pulltab]

how about reapplying some that are peeling?

 

[froggy38383]

Something like paint thinner/varsol...DO NOT USE lacquer thinner as this could damage the surface. Also there are commercial wax and silicone removers, which work best ,as they do not leave an oily film on the surface.. These are available from auto body supply shops. IF you know some one who has a body shop they could probably provide you with a tiny quantity.

The important thing is to make sure all grease and oil are removed.

 

[SkiWhiz]

I was searching the www and noticed a product called Goo Gone. Would this work ok. I can buy it from the big eB@y store very reasonable. Thanks again. Steve.

 

[froggy38383]

That I do not know....

 

[tab-nabit]

I would think the type of decal determines the methods used for removal.
Wife says she saw a product made for removing decals - she thinks she saw it at Wally World.
Many pressure-sensitive decals can be removed with heat such as a hair dryer.
Water-slide decals not clear coated usually scrape off with a fingernail, a job for the wife.
Residue - I have used WD40, Goo Gone, and lighter fluid (Naphtha). A softening with Naphtha has made some almost fall/slide off. Naphtha may not agree to some plastics and may harm some paints.

Lacquer thinner is to strong for many surfaces that decals/stickers are on.