(NOTE: If you require installation assistance, please reach out to install@stripeman.com and he and his team will be more than happy to assist you).
The Graphic Kit Installation help here is for decal installation. If you need another type of installation help please contact us via our Contact Page on the menu above.
For optimum results, surface temperature should be above 50°F and below 90°F. If necessary, move vehicle to a location where the temperature can be within the installation guidelines. You will need a ruler, masking tape, scissors, lint free cloth, a surface cleaner(isopropyl alcohol is recommended) and a slip solution is optional for larger graphics. Never use the wet method if using 3M1080 or Avery Supreme Wrap.
STEP 1:
After determining the location for your graphic, clean the surface with a lint free cloth and cleaner solution. Be sure to turn the cloth several times to insure thorough cleaning and wax removal. After doing this you should get a "squeaky" sensation when lightly dragging your fingers across the surface. For best results, when you think it's perfectly clean, do it one more time.
STEP 2:
Using small strips of masking tape, locate the graphic where it is to be installed. If the graphic has a horizontal edge or reference point, you can use this for measuring the location from a body line or trim molding. If the decal has a flowing design, you'll have to step back and visually inspect its location to determine if that is where you want it. Once this is done, make measurements from individual points on the design and transfer the locations to the opposite side of your vehicle. ( This is the step you need to take your time on, measure from different locations, once the graphic is installed, it cannot be moved).
STEP 3:
Place two strips of masking tape (slightly overlapping each other) vertically in the approximate center of the graphic. This is known as the "hinge" method. This will allow you to install one half of your decal or graphic kit at a time.
STEP 4:
Remove the masking tape strips from one end of the decal and slowly peel the backing paper away, taking care not to touch the adhesive side of the graphic. Use scissors to remove the backing paper and discard.
STEP 5:
WET APPLICATION (Large Graphics Only)
Spray the surface where the backing paper has been removed with a "slip" solution. Do this on the vehicle surface as well. Slowly swing the exposed part of the decal onto the wet surface, keeping only enough tension on it to avoid wrinkles. As the decal meets the surface, squeegee from center to ends using semi circular, overlapping motions to push the air from underneath. There is no need to use excessive pressure because the slip solution serves as a lubricant for the air to be pushed outward.
Slip Solution: 32 oz. Sprayer filled with clean tap water and 1 (one) drop(yes one small drip will do) of dish detergent. Make sure you don't use too much soap or you will have difficulty removing the masking paper after installation.
STEP 6:
DRY APPLICATION (Small Decals ie: 4x4, Sport, Limited Edition)
Slowly swing the exposed part of the decal on to the surface, keeping only enough tension on it to avoid wrinkles. As the decal meets the surface, squeegee from center to ends using semi circular, overlapping motions to push the air from underneath. Use moderate pressure to insure good adhesion.
STEP 7:
Slowly remove the center hinge and very carefully peel the remaining backing paper away. Just as before, swing the decal over and squeegee it down using the same motions described above. Resqueegee the entire surface of the graphic again to insure all areas have adhered.
STEP 8:
Remove the application tape by pulling it back at a 180° angle. Make sure to watch the decal to make sure it's not lifting from the surface. If the graphic seems to be lifting, gently push the application tape back in the opposite direction that you were removing it and resqueegee that area. NOTE: If too much detergent is used in the slip solution, or surface temperature is cold, you may have to wait for several minutes to allow drying time before removing the application tape.
STEP 9:
Once the decal is installed and the application tape removed, carefully inspect the area for bubbles. In the case of very small air bubbles, usually they will pass through the vinyl within a couple weeks. Larger bubbles may need to be removed, puncturing them with a pin or needle at the edge and softly pushing the air out towards the puncture.