Thread: Car wax on decals

I've just fininshed putting all of the decals onto my CT70K1.
I put them all on dry and they all came out very well.

Not sure if this is a silly question or not, but I am planning to put a normal car wax over the new paintwork ( like turtle wax ) and am wondering if It's OK to put it over the decals also? I would have thought that it would protect them also - like the paint, but I don't want to damage them if car wax Isn't suitable.

I'm just waiting on a few more nuts & bolts then will upload a photo of my restored " baby "..

Q. What do paint and decals both have in common?
A. They're both mainly plastic.

Wax keeps paint sealed, to a degree, which slows oxidation in a big way. Obviously, decals are a different polymer formula, with different properties than paint, but keeping them sealed with wax won't hurt. It's a good idea to wax the entire bike once in a while, it keeps stuff like tree sap from sticking and you might be surprised to see how much surface contamination is removed when you apply it. I would, however, avoid silicone-based polishes as the stuff works a little "too well" and might cause lifting around the outside edges of decals in time.

Thanks. I plan to use good 'ol Turtle wax. I'll check what type of wax it is and hopefully it'll give the paint and the decals a good protective coating and shine.

I just looked at my container of Turtle wax and It does say "not intended for vinyl, wood or flat paint" - so I just hope that It's definately OK to use on the decals. Although when people put wax on their cars, I'm sure that the wax would also be applied to any decals or side striping.

Actually, I've answered this question myself. I guess the do not use on vinyl refers to vinyl dashboards and seats etc.

I looked at the Turtlewax website and on one of the FAQ's answered was "can I use wax on decals" - with the answer being - "Yes, as long as It's smooth and shiny, do not use on any matte finsh or decal". I guess only because the wax will get into the pores and will be hard to get out - similiar to an unpainted matte finish bumber bar.

Anyway, I'm off to Turtlewax the new clear coat paintwork and the decals. Will post pictures soon of the finished product.