How can I print a copy of the Installation Instructions?

How can I print a copy of the Window/Sunroof Graphics Installation Instructions?

What should I do once I receive my shipment of PurpleJalopy.com graphics?

What tools do I need to install my graphic?

How do I prepare my vehicle for the graphic installation?

How do I decide where to place my graphic?

How do I remove the backing from the vinyl adhesive?

How do I apply the graphic to my vehicle?

How do I remove the transfer mask from the graphic?

How do I make door and panel cuts?

How do I care for my PurpleJalopy.com custom vinyl graphic?

How can I contact PurpleJalopy.com for installation assistance?

With the sticky side up, spray the entire surface of the graphic (lettering and transfer mask) with application fluid. Spray the application area of the vehicle with the same application fluid you used on the graphic.

Place the wet side of the graphic on the vehicle in the desired position. If you need to make adjustments you can pull it off the vehicle and try again. Re-spray vehicle with application fluid as needed to keep the graphic from sticking to the painted surface. You can reposition two or three times. Be sure the graphic (and its transfer mask) is laying smoothly on the surface of the vehicle.

Firmly squeegee the graphic to remove the excess fluid that is behind it. Start at the center of the graphic and work out in all directions. Tip: work a 5 – 10 square inch area with moderate pressure then work the same area with slightly more pressure. As you expand your radius, include the areas already worked. Keep in mind that the adhesive is similar to billions of microscopic glass beads with glue in them. You need to use enough pressure to move all of the air and water pockets from behind the graphic and crush the glue beads. Keep the transfer mask in mind. By design, the more water it is exposed to, the easier it will tear.

Now that the graphic is in place and completely applied, spray the graphic thoroughly with water to saturate the transfer mask and rinse much of the application fluid from the vehicle. Run your hand over the entire surface of the transfer mask to be sure there is complete saturation. Leave this side of the vehicle to dry. Drying time will depend on the temperature and sun exposure.

Move to the other side of the vehicle and follow all of the above steps. Later you will return to remove the transfer mask and cut door openings.

When you return to the side of the vehicle that you applied the graphic to first, you will probably notice that some of the transfer mask is wrinkled. This is good because it shows that it is beginning to release from the vinyl graphic. Re-soak the entire surface of transfer mask and rub your hand over it lightly to work the water into the mask.  Allow soaking for approximately 1 minute, and repeat.

Starting from the end that has the most vinyl attached to the vehicle loosen the transfer mask and begin to pull it away from the graphic. Be sure to keep the transfer mask parallel and close to the surface of the vehicle while removing it.  You may notice the glue of the transfer mask separating from its paper. This is fine and expected and means that it is no longer holding onto the graphic.

Note: If the vinyl does not seem to be stuck to the vehicle you should squeegee it again with enough pressure to cause it to stick and allow it time to become attached. This may require moving the vehicle into the sun. If you must move the vehicle you will need to make your door cuts with the mask still on (see Door and Panel Cuts).

With the transfer mask removed and the vehicle completely dry you can now cut and fold your graphic into the doorjambs and other panel openings such as gas doors and cab-to-bed transitions.

Doors
With a sharp razor blade, simply cut the graphic down the center of the space between panels. Repeat this step at all panel gaps or openings.

Fold the graphic around the sheet metal with your fingers applying enough pressure to cause the glue to take hold. If there is still some moisture on the backside of these panels the vinyl may not stick well. Just move on to a different area and allow the vehicle to continue to dry. You can return later to press the vinyl into place. Do not use a rag or paper towel to dry these areas, powder, dust or lint will damage the glue.

Do not use high pressure to wash car for 1 week.

Never use loop rags such as most bath towels and wash rags to clean graphic or area of vehicle around the graphic. The loops can grab graphic tips or hold grit from other areas of the vehicle and scratch the graphic.  Use paper towels, soft brushes and/or a shammie.

Do not apply wax, sealer or other conditioners for 1 week.

It is recommended that you include your graphic when washing, waxing and sealing your vehicle. Note: Some wax products do not include UV protection and may accelerate fading.

Do not allow wax to build up at edges of graphic, it may eat away the adhesive causing peeling or curling.

Do not use high-speed buffers on the graphic area of your vehicle.

If you are unsure about anything you read in this installation guide, e-mail your questions to help@purplejalopy.com.