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Best way to apply decals to factory painted cars?

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  • Member since
    April 2009
  • 239 posts
Best way to apply decals to factory painted cars?
Posted by trainsBuddy on Friday, September 11, 2009 12:40 PM

I've read multiple posts about how to apply decals using Dullcoat, Walther's decal solution etc. But I'm still confused as to what the best way to apply decals to the factory finished cars. In my case these would be Walther's streamlined passenger cars and all I want to do is apply car name and numbers. What bothers me is that people recommend spraying whole car with Dullcoat after applying decals to protect them from falling apart and to hide decal border. I don't feel comfortable with spraying windows, grab irons, wheels and roof with sealant like that. Masking all those items would be a nightmare. Is there better way of applying decals? I would appreciate any advice.

 Thanks.

"Thanks to the Interstate Highway System, it is now possible to travel from coast to coast without seeing anything." - Charles Kuralt
  • Member since
    July 2006
  • 3,312 posts
Posted by locoi1sa on Friday, September 11, 2009 5:05 PM

 It is best to have a glossy finish before applying decals. Gloss coat the area with a brush, apply decal, let dry and dull coat the area. any light weathering later on will blend it all together. Use solvaset or decal setting solution of choice to snuggle the decals over rivets or other details if needed.

    Pete

 I pray every day I break even, Cause I can really use the money!

 I started with nothing and still have most of it left!

  • Member since
    September 2005
  • From: Middle Tennessee
  • 453 posts
Posted by Bill H. on Friday, September 11, 2009 5:14 PM

 Remember also to cut the film as close as possible to the lettering. Don't spare the Solvaset.

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