Xpel Application Porsche GT3 - Page 2

chefwong · 01-30-05, 10:06

Just out of curiousity, on the hoods and such, are the cuts *overcut* so that you wrap the edges ?

RedondoV6 · 01-31-05, 05:39

Quote:

Originally posted by seracis
As long as you stay parallel to the edge of the PPF it will be fine. I've used Llumar PPF for a couple years, as well as a few other kits from other manufacturers. As for a slip solution, I use Slip-Up (a window tint slip solution) or simply Johnson and Johnson baby shampoo mixed with water. After the PPF is in position, I use another squirt bottle with about 1 part 91% alcohol to 3 parts slip solution/water. I never thought of using compressed air. I usually end up using the alcohol based mix to rinse the other mixture away, work awhile on the rest of the car, then come back to lay it all down and do the final cut. The only place this is a pain is when wrapping the edges. I'll have to try the air.

That's just about what I have been doing too Seracis, baby shampoo mix and IPA mix. I was asking because of the advice given by Llumar regarding using IPA and the weakening effect on the adhesive they use (I have only worked the 3M and VentureShield PPF's).

How do you like the using Llumar film? How does it compare to the 3M and VS, I'm guessing it is more like VS to work with?

RedondoV6 · 01-31-05, 06:06

Anthony and seracis:

Did either of you try any of the commercial slip and tack solutions yet? Any advaatnges to using these solutions or just a waste of money?

seracis · 01-31-05, 07:46

I've tried a few "specialized" slip solutions and I found no real advantage or disadvantage, one way or the other. With the cost of J&J shampoo, using only a small amount, the cost is negligable. I think Llumar is about the easiest to work with, but I haven't used EVERY brand out there. There are some I will not use again, but past experiences with giving my opinion on products I don't like have gotten others in hot water. I don't want this site to end up like others that I've seen: members fighting and arguing as to a products ups and downs, and the site admin catching flak from manufacturers claiming slander.

As for the question on extra for wrapping edges, it depends on several things. Some companies that cut out patterns leave enough for wrapping, others do not. I use bulk material and I cut freehand. Using software and a plotter reduces waste by using as much as possible of the width of the roll but makes the mobile install a real pita if you screw a piece up and have to go back to your shop to cut a new piece.

chefwong · 01-31-05, 08:13

Interesing info -

How do you like the LuLu stuff ? I've heard it's very optically clear compared to 3M. With that said, most shops that I know including Xpel prefer to use the 3M due to the clearcoat. PPF film being porus, I would expect the LuLu to *grey* faster if the owner has not cleaned/waxed it as part of it's maintenance.

Cutting freehand, just curious, on certain areas, do you use kraft paper or such to make a template ? The *wings* of the car, that usually complement the hood piece, how do you make matching curved pieces freecutting ?

Personally, I think freehand is the way to go just like Tints - no panel is every 100% the same from the other but that's just my option. I like it to *da edge*.