Wow, the vinyl stripes just don't work, huh? I was thinking about doing that, but not after seeing that last car...is there any other examples that anyone can show me? I'm thinking about just saying let's put up the extra money and have them painted on...

 

Not sure why you guys don't think vinyl stripes are a good idea. I have been in the business for years and don't see a problem with them. However, it really depends on what type of vinyl you are using and where it is being installed. After several years, you might, and I mean might, have a problem with the rear bumper where the mustang lettering is. The vinyl will conform to that area when it is new, but depending on the weather conditions and chemicals it is subjected to over the years may cause the vinyl to become brittle, which will crack in those areas. Dirt and water will get underneath causing more vinyl to lift. Just replace the stripes on the bumper. It is still a lot cheaper than having stripes properly painted on.

 

John, in my case its not just rear bumper, its also roof. Stripe is starting to peel of on the roof too. I'm thinking to take it off completely next summer, which won't be easy.

 

Since it has not been on your car that long, my guess is it was either low quality vinyl or a bad batch. 3M 2mil automotive grade vinyl (especially metallics) will last 7-9 years on a car before it begins to break down. 3mil vinyl, which should not be used on cars, usually lasts 3-5 years before it starts to break down.

If you are going to strip the vinyl off of the car pick up some adhesive remover, like this stuff

http://www.beacongraphics.com/adhesive-remover.html

The hardest part will be the hood due to the heat the engine puts out. You might want to pick up a vinyl eraser
http://www.beacongraphics.com/vinyl-remover.html

They work great. If not, just use a hair dryer or heat gun (on low setting). The vinyl should remove easily, but you are left with the adhesive residue to get rid of.

 

Friend of mine who installs stripes on trailers for some company for a living got me this stripe and he did installation. Its very low quality and it was on my car since summer 2001.

 

So I guess I don't understand why you are telling Julie she made a very big mistake? I'm not sure what vinyl they used but you just said it yourself, yours was very low quality. If it has been the proper stuff I am sure you would still be happy with it.

Anyway, back on topic,
Julie, as you already know, I think your car looks great. Keep up the good work.

 

I assumed it was same type of stripe as mine. I can't tell quality of stripe just by looking at them.
Like I said, company that builds and sells trailers use same stripe as mine for their trailers. Would they really use stripe on brand new trailer that will start to peel off in few years? It just doesn't make any sence to me.

 

Actually, from a profit standpoint, yes they would. Anyway, I have put some sort of stripe on all my my vehicles. Person that bought my 91 pickup off me still has the stripes on the truck. They have faded a bit but after 14 years, they are holding up better than the body.

You have to understand that there are several manufacturers for vinyl stripes, and each manufacturer has several grades of stripes. For most trailers they only use 3mil calendared vinyl because it is the cheapest and trailers are not considered to warrant the best product. I know we only installed 3mil vinyl on trailers. We would give them a price for the 2mil automotive grade and they would always pass because of the price. Not all vinyl is equal.

 

Nice stripes... Looks killer. I got mine on b4 summer. I also got Mustang writing w/ stripe on side. Got'em from graphic express.

 

looks fantastic! You did it your self? Very nice indeed.

 

looks nice

 

darn, that looks real nice, red star that really sucks, but take it to the guy that put it on, he might have some matching stripes, and put up some patches

 

that looks really nice!

 

Very Nice

 

Never was a big fan of racing stripes on the SN95's, but I think I just changed my mind....nice work Julie!

Were they easy to put on yourself?

 

UMich...It wasn't too hard...but it was by no means an easy task. I thought the hood would be hard and the roof easy, but it was the oppisite!

 

loookin gooooood

 

I had mine painted on this time around. I used the vinyl for a year or so to see if I likes them.