rv factory graphics

[buzzgraphics]

Hi all, long time lurker, first time poster.

Here's my situation:
I was recently contacted by a local rv dealership about replacing peeling graphics on a camper. Apparently it's a problem from the factory as all the company's models are having similar problems. The one in particular that I was called out on had cut metallic vinyl (it looked like 8500) with what looked like screen printing on it to create a gradient. It was pulling at the ribs on the trailer. Apparently this is the third time it has been replaced in the last year. The dealership is convinced that the vinyl is defective, but I'm not so sure. He described how one other sign guy wiped the whole thing down with windex first, and I mentioned that I thought that that may be the problem, but he said another sign woman wiped it down with a different solvent and same result. I mentioned that there's probably some kind of wax residue, but he insisted that there couldn't be. So they asked for a quote for me to print on cast vinyl and apply, which I obliged. I still think that the factory stuff should be able to go down without problems, as I'm not aware of any really low grade metallic flake vinyl. Anyone else have any thoughts as to why this stuff is repeatedly failing before I get myself into a trap and ruin my good name?

oh, and here's my current plan. prep trailer with straight ammonia to remove all residue, then a quick wipedown with 50/50 alcohol water mix, then apply. Heat material and work into ribs. followup with the torch to set it. That's my usual process and I haven't had any problems so far.

thanks
rich
buzz graphics

[wsgraphix]

the factory made stuff usually comes from "Universal", you know the ones with all the catalogs out at dealerships and all, they are all crap, everything i have seen come out of those books does what you describe, they are using calendared clear and screen printing on to it

older stuff was fine but in recent years, it is continually getting worse:rolleyes:

your idea with the cast is a better solution, although wouldn't want to use ammonia on the surface

[buzzgraphics]

why not use ammonia?

[wsgraphix]

Isopropyl alcohol is the best to use on any surface, other agents could attack the paint surface or reduce the adhesive strength of the film

ammonia based cleaners leave a residue behind, that will effect the adhesion of the film, it can cause bubbles when the ammonia outgases from within the surface it penetrated, ammonia will get below the paint surface!

ammonia will shorten the life span of the vinyl, by attacking the adhesive

the same principal applies to window tinting, when you use an ammonia based cleaner on the glass before applying the window tint, the adhesive starts to break down and turns the tint purple in the end, although cheap tint can do this anyway

[wabam]

Not sure what ammonia will do to the surface....Something I've NEVER heard of....why? Just go straight for the kerosene....LOL

If they are still having problems with with printed vinyl thay need a painter....If they are having problems with the factory vinyl...maybe it's atmosphere....Where are the storing the RV??? Trees??? Sun??? Sandstorms??? New Orleans???

[Typestries]

stripping an RV is a huge pain. and most of the fiberglass has residue from manufacturing. we had to clean with LAs awesome from the dollar store, the water then iso to get stuff to stick

[OldPaint]

ALCOHOL FROM WALMART....make sure its 91% OR BETTER. rubbing alcohol has OIL IN IT!!!

[Bogie]

OP just really wants you to use everclear, so he can get his head in there...

Now, am I a member of the "dis on ol' paint club" or what?

(splat!)

Eeeewwwww...... Dude, is there any kerosene around here?