The First "C" is for Clean
Cleaning your panel is the first step you can take to get a powerful pull. If your working surface is not clean, your tabs will not adhere correctly and the process will be compromised.
Since the tabs need to be glued directly to the paint, we need to be sure this paint is as clean as possible before we begin.
Start by thoroughly cleaning your panel with glass cleaner and water to remove any dirt and debris that may be on the paint surface. Use a microfiber cloth to rub on the paint surface to be sure you have removed everything.
Next, use 99% isopropyl alcohol or as close as you can get to that concentration level. We recommend that you use Keystone Cleaning Release Solution (CRS).
NOTE: DO NOT use paint thinner or other acetone-based products
Debris from accidents won’t necessarily be visible with the naked eye. Use your microfiber cloth to wipe back-and-forth as well as a circular motion to remove anything on the surface of the area where the glue will be applied.
Debris from accidents won’t necessarily be visible with the naked eye. Use your microfiber cloth to wipe back-and-forth as well as a circular motion to remove anything on the surface of the area where the glue will be applied.
For More Resistant Panel Contaminants
If you are not able to get paint from other vehicles, rubbings, or other debris to release from the surface by using water, soap, or cleaning solution then your last step is to use a polisher to buff out anything that remains on the surface.
Polishing the surface with compound polish with increase the power of your pull. We recommend that you use compounds that are most commonly used to clean paint on repairs. The cleanest paint will be machine polished with high-quality rubbing compound. Even rubbed on paint from the other car or wall will be removed and the surface will provide maximum adhesion and pull strength.
If a wax stripper or degreaser is required, use the CRS again after degreasing and polishing.
Remember: The key to good adhesion comes from starting with a clean surface
We’re not only cleaning the paint surface but we are also cleaning our tabs in preparation for adhesion as well. Carefully clean tabs with CRS or another releasing agent. You need to be sure that all glue from previous procedures has been thoroughly removed.
