DIY Network

Mitsubishi Eclipse: Vinyl Graphics Application From "Tricked Out" episode DTRK-105

Harry McKinney puts the finishing touches on the newly installed custom-vinyl graphics.

In this segment of Tricked Out host Andrew Totolos and auto aftermarket specialist Andy McKinney install some killer vinyl graphics on our Mitsubishi Eclipse project car. A custom vinyl shop can do this for you, but installing a custom-vinyl kit like this yourself may be easier than you think.

DIY Difficulty Rating for This Project: Vinyl graphics and light kits are fairly inexpensive, and relatively easy to install as automotive work goes. We gave this project a difficulty rating of 3 on a 5-point intermediate-level scale.

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Figure A

Materials used in this segment:

Vinyl graphics kit
Industrial sprayer or spray bottle
Dishwashing liquid and water

Prep Work

Before adhering anything to the car, Harry gives it a thorough washing, taking care to remove any dirt and debris (figure A). If the surface isn't perfectly clean, you'll have problems with applying the graphics. Clean all surfaces thoroughly using a lint-free cloth.

Vinyl Graphics Application

The vinyl graphic comes in a 3-ply package. The mask protects the vinyl surface and holds everything in place until it's adhered to the car. The next layer is the vinyl decal itself, with a pressure-sensitive adhesive underneath. The backing protects the adhesive.

• The first step is to carefully remove the backing from vinyl graphic (figure B).

• As you remove the backing, fold it over against itself so the direction of your pull is parallel to the surface of the vinyl (figure C).

  Figure B

  Figure C

  
  

• The next step is to spray the adhesive on the graphic with a mixture of water and dishwashing liquid. Add one teaspoon of dishwashing liquid per gallon of water to lubricate the surface for proper positioning.

• Once adhesive is wet, spray down the car as well (figure D). Both surfaces being wet gives you more time to place the graphic precisely and work out all of the bubbles.

• Once both surfaces have been wet, apply graphics to car. A large graphic like ours will require more than one person to assure proper application and to avoid creasing the vinyl (figure E). Go slowly as you move the vinyl carefully into position.

  Figure D

  Figure E

  
  

• When properly positioned, use a squeegee or credit card to lightly anchor the vinyl (figure F). Always work from the center outward so that you can smooth out any air pockets.

• Spray down graphic to loosen adhesive.

• Carefully remove mask to reveal the graphic (figure G).

  Figure F

  Figure G

  
  

• In most cases, it's best to work from the end with the largest surface area of vinyl and work to the smaller end large end. In this case, however, Andrew and Harry worked from small to large so they could wrap the front edge of the vinyl around the wheel well. At this point, the adhesive is still wet and could release in places if you're not careful. Double check and make care to make sure that everything sticks.

• Our design incorporate a second layer of contrasting vinyl. Vinyl sticks to vinyl more quickly than it does to metal, so the working time for the second layer is shorter. Everything else is the same as the first layer. Simply repeat the steps and carefully install the second layer, following the design.

Important: Included in this segment are the steps in this automotive procedure as shown in the episode. These steps are general guidelines that are applicable to most vehicles. With any particular vehicle, there may be procedures, specifications, settings, tolerances, components, etc. that are specific to that vehicle. There are also variations according to the type and brand of repair-kit you select. Always consult your vehicle's service manual when undertaking significant automotive repairs, and read and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions that come with your kit or replacement parts.

RESOURCES :

Sport Compact Bolt-On Performance Guide: Import Cars (Sport Compact Bolt-On Performance Guides)
Author: Joe Pettitt
Order this book from Amazon.com.
Voyageur Press (October 2000)
ISBN: 1884089526

Bend-Pak Inc.
www.bendpak.com
Bend-Pak manufactures automotive hydraulic-lift equipment and other specialized automotive equipment.

GUESTS :

Harry McKinney
Racing Innovations
8913 Oak Ridge Hwy.
Knoxville, TN 37931
Phone: 865-927-3278
Email:info@racing-innovations.com
Website: www.racinginnovations.com