Rejuvenating faded/oxidized Vinyl Stripes and Decals.
My story: My Winnebago is 12 years old. The decals/striping were pathetic - chalky and very old looking.
I tried various methods such as auto polish with wax of various kinds. Not very satisfactory.
Then I found a product that appealed to me, it being a synthetic Polymer (which is used in the clearcoat on modern cars).
It comes in two parts: STOP WAX? AUTO WASH and STOP WAX? INSTANT SHINE. Both are used for this application.
The Auto Wash is simply diluted with water to wash the surface. Immediate rinsing afterwards makes it very easy to use.
(Don't forget to read the label instructions).
The Instant Shine spray is then applied and wiped off right after. Not to be used in direct sunshine.
Since my RV is unpainted, I use it on the whole vehicle with great success. Now to the decals and striping:
1. Remove as much surface dirt as possible; Road grime, old wax etc. ( I used a dampened rag with paint thinner/cleaner and a yellow/green kitchen pad)
2. Remove oxidization by using auto rubbing compound (non- wax), Bon-Ami, scotch-brite pad (gentle), whatever has a mild scouring action.
3. When done, use the Auto Wash and rinse.
4. When dry, use the spray Instant Shine and wipe off immediately. No buffing and polishing required. The polymers will "soak" into the vinyl and produce a luster right away. The whole process only takes minutes.
In order to "build up" a layer, repeat the spray procedure a few times, as you see fit. As time goes by, just take a few minutes over the months to occasionally re-spray and wipe off.
I am totally pleased with the results, as shown in the images below. I purchased the product at HD (Home Depot) and I think it is widely available in other retail venues. I did not take any pictures from the "before" state, just the final "after" results.
carson FL