Clear over massive Trans Am bird?

2

242 Motorsports

Getting close to finishing BC/CC paint on a 10th Anniversary Trans Am.

The bird is HUGE, covering 75% of the hood with wing tips reaching across the tops of the fenders and onto the edge of the door.

Vinyl pinstripes take over at the wing tips and arch over the roof to the other side.

The front and rear bumpers are striped as well, to seperate the silver and grey.

Can I clear over the decal and pinstripes?

I'm using Universal clear.
 
I've cleared over much smaller decals successfully, but never one that large. Certainly I'd want that decal to be on there a good long time and cured out in the sun to make sure any bubbles or moisture are gone from underneath before attempting it.

What is your procedure for clearing decals?
 
I don't have one. :confused:

That was next on the list after getting the okay from you guys to clear.

My goal would be to build up enough clear to block it back smooth so the edge ridge can't be felt.
 
Not a problem as this has been done 100's of times, including 3 times myself.
Clean decal with soap and water (dawn-original), dry and then let set for an hour and clear away., 3 coats will be enough to sand the edges smooth.
 
Do the decal & pinstripes need scuffed at all or will the clear adhere nicely?

I've read of delamination down the road.
 
The clear will stick to the decals.. No worries..

I always err of the side of caution, I would spray 4 coats, sand with P400 and reclear then start with P400 again all the way up to 3000.. I would also let the clear sessions set in the sun if you have time to let it shrink a little bit more.. The more UV exposure the cleared decals get before the final sand and buff the less chance of it shrinking enough to feel the decal again as it sets outside in the summer sun
 
This question would have stumped me.. Good to know..

I know a lot of motorcycle tanks have decals on them that are cleared over..

Personally it always irritates me because you have to strip that area if you want to loose the decal. but that won't be the case in your situation.
 
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