Solvent-based paint + decals.

[false_aesthetic]

Has anyone used the velocal decals + solvent based paint?
How much time are you giving the paint between base + decal application?

VeloCal's instructions recommend waiting 2 weeks for outgassing (after base) to apply their decals. This puts me solidly outside of the recoat window for every solvent-based paint system I've used . . . . into the scuffing territory. Which I'm not a huge fan of.

Any thoughts/insights on how to get this moving w/out biting myself in the ass?


Appreciated!

[Rody]

Tom,

I've used them before on work for other builders.

I laid a thin layer of clear over the base coats, flashed off in the bake box for 15 minutes, then 1200 grit scuff and decals, clear on top. Three top coats of clear and let it cure at room temp.

Did not have any issues over all the frames I used them on.

Best wishes,

Rody

[false_aesthetic]

Thanks Rody!

That's super helpful.

When you applied the decals did you use water to soften the adhesive as per VeloCal's recommendation or did you just go straight on?

[Curt Goodrich]

I’ll second Rody’s post. And add that regardless of the decal I always put down clear coat before applying the graphics. The small time investment upfront will save one’s butt if you need to remove the decal if it’s crooked. I’ve only used VeloCal decals once and I didn’t soak them. Good luck.

[Rody]

When you applied the decals did you use water to soften the adhesive as per VeloCal's recommendation or did you just go straight on?

I did not soak, I typically put the dry decals on a warm frame.

[Andrew R Stewart]

I believe VeloCal has offered different decal make ups, dry vinal in two thicknesses and water slides. If the OP has the water slide versions, then yes, he will need to soak.

Re: outgassing- I have a somewhat self painted bike that suffered from pocks on the decals (dry adhesive, SSSink) when i forced dried the top clear coats with heat. Only time this happened to me. Andy

[Mark Kelly]

Could that be the paint under the decals outgassing? I routinely use an accelerated cure on 2k PU over SSSink decals and haven't had the problem you describe.

[false_aesthetic]

Thanks for the help ya'll.

I don't dislike too many things but decals are on my list. I suck at applying them and I just have no desire to practice.
Maybe things would be different if I had dialed paint set-up.

Babe, it's not you, it's me. 100%

Off to cutting + buffing.