Applying a CPO......Use the "Wet" method???

[koolmoecraig]

Hello,

I was wondering if you guys think the "wet" method is a good way to install a CPO on a metal control panel? I used this method with great success on my side art. I just can't imagine being acurate enough to lay it down correctly on my first attempt.

Thanks,
Craig

[NoOne=NBA=]

Wet's fine--as long as you remember that the water has to go SOMEWHERE as you apply it.

Make sure that somewhere isn't somewhere BAD (on your I-pac, CPU, etc...).

The easiest way to make sure you hit on your first attempt is to tape it in place before removing the backing paper.

[mahuti]

This is off the cuff... so BUYER BEWARE!!!

I bike a lot. I used to go through handle grips alot. It was always a pain replacing them. I would install them wet, and it was tough, and the water would often get stuck under the grips for a long time before it dried. I started working at a bike shop. Their secret was to use hairspray. Since it was alchohol based wetness, it would dry immediately, but long enough for me to get the grips on, and positioned (and when it dried, it would add extra stickiness. Since when, I've used hairspray alot to position adhesive to great effect.

I don't know if this is common for mounting of other adhesive products, but i used it for my defender bezel and it worked great.

[DrewKaree]

I've tinted tons of windows and used dishwashing liquid and water to make it moveable, just make sure you spray the crap out of it, otherwise it does dry rather quickly...also, make it more "soapy" than normal, it'll help it slide better while wet, and add a little more "tack" than normal when dry.  

Using this method, I have yet to have any of the windows I've done get that ghetto "fulla bubbles" effect that's so common.

Longest tint job out there with no fixes - 6 years - and I had to go fix his side windows cuz after he did them, found out it wasn't as easy as he thought...I did the back window, and 1 1/2 years later, had to redo his side windows due to "ghetto bubble".  

[Robopede]

A guy I work with told me boating supply places sell a product that you can use to position the stick-on letters and numbers to a boat. I'm going to try that stuff when I apply my CPO, I think.

[spriggy]

Try 'Windex'.

[Minwah]

Try 'Windex'.

What is Windex?  Is it just a window cleaning solution?

[mp2526]

Yes, the blue window cleaning solution here in the States.

[koolmoecraig]

Yes, I used windex on the side art. It worked great, but this hairspray idea sounds intriguing. The control panel gets alot more contact than the side art.

[Wade]

Windex is commonly used but it isn't ideal.  It breaks down the adhesives.  If you don't believe me or aren't sure, then on a scrap piece of your artwork, peel off the backing and spray it down with Windex.  Then rub your fingers on it.  You'll find the adhesive usually just kinda washes off...

Soapy water would probably be the best thing, or do it dry if the artwork isn't too large.  I've always done it dry and haven't had any ripples or bubbles or bad positioning.  Just be careful!

Wade

[Minwah]

Soapy water would probably be the best thing, or do it dry if the artwork isn't too large.  I've always done it dry and haven't had any ripples or bubbles or bad positioning.  Just be careful!

I applied some Happ vinyl dry the other day to the front of my cab.  While I was pretty worried about doing it, it came out perfectly - again, just be very careful, and don't rush.

And thanks for confirming what Windex is mp...

[Tailgunner]

I'd go with the wet method on a plated/painted metal CP. You'd eventually have corrosion develop if the panel was bare metal. Then again you'll likely have corrosion issues anyway with a bare metal panel.

I've always used straight ammonia when stripping automotive window tint, it's cheap and rather effective for removing the glue residue left when you peel off the tint. Windex contains ammonia which is why it breaks down some adhesives.

On bike grips, I use compressed air to install or remove them. With air between them and the bars, the grips float like pucks on an air hockey table. Since switching I can remove and install a set of grips in seconds without having to cut off the old grips.