Autocycle door decal application??? Any Tips for applying them?

[Tom Hudak]

I’m in the process of applying the Autocycle decals to my prewar jeweled tank. This is the first time trying to apply a large decal and believe me it’s no easy task. The right side was difficult and had a small split but I think I can touch it up to be unnoticeable. The left side I had to cut the decal to allow for the door. The end went on OK but I ruined the door decal when trying to slide it under the door button. It’s zero clearance. Has anyone attempted applying these decals and what tips do you have? I’m ready to remove the door button which would be very hard to reapply. Let me know any successful tips you had in applying the door decal.

 

[Tom Hudak]

Also has anyone sprayed a clear coat over these decals? I’ll experiment prior to shooting the tank but thought I’d ask if the decal hold up after a clear coat application.

 

[Freqman1]

Even the pros have trouble with that side of the tank. I'll be doing three of them when I get home so I'll be interested to see what folks post. @deepsouth just did one @bobcycles may have some suggestions as well. V/r Shawn

 

[1817cent]

Aren't there a couple types of material used in these decals? Never put one on but interested in seeing how to overcome the door issue.

 

[catfish]

I'd have Bob U. or Tim Brant do it. They are the experts.

 

[Dave K]

Several layers of clear helps and or putting it on a carrier sheet. I always cut out the latch hole before applying the decal.

 

[Tom Hudak]

Several layers of clear helps and or putting it on a carrier sheet. I always cut out the latch hole before applying the decal.

Thanks Dave! I also spoke to Bob U and He also cuts the latch hole prior to wetting the decals. I’m assuming I’d have to slide the decal off the backing just past the latch hole then apply to the door over the latch. I do have newer decals coming and I hope they are less brittle than the first one I tried to apply. Bob said the older batch were very thin and it took him 5 or 6 label attempts to get it right.

 

[Dave K]

One detail I did not mention is you need to cut the decal to shape after applying the clear coat or the clear coat could keep it stuck to the carrier sheet.

 

[cyclingday]

Decal setting solution also helps.
It provides the flexibility needed for compound curved surfaces.