Vinyl Wrapping a Mustang: Step-by-Step Guide
If you'd like to preserve your Mustang's original pain job, experiment with a bright color or implement some custom graphics without the risk of permanence, vinyl wrapping is for you. Here we'll guide you through the process of vinyl wrapping your Mustang, allowing for professional results right in your own garage.
Getting Your Mustang Ready for Vinyl Wraps
1. Consider the Surface of Your Mustang
They start with seeing the imperfections in your Mustang's paint, or mold on a pre-2015 part. Minor scratches are fine to have underneath a vinyl wrap, but if we're talking about substantial damage, then that can certainly cause adhesion and appearance concerns. You should repair any significant defects prior to moving forward.
2. Choose the Right Environment
Use an environment that is clean and dust free for the best results. The garage that is well lit with minimum airflow. Dust and debris can accumulate underneath the vinyl, causing an imperfect finish. When you applied the design, if it is too cold in there (like lets say maybe 68°F or lower), and yes this temp can effect how well your vinyl sticks.
3. What You Will Need to Have With You
This is a list of tools to get if you are trying vinyl wrap for your Mustang.
- Vinyl Wrap (about 5ft*59ft)
- Grease and wax remover
- Isopropyl alcohol (70-90%)
- Lint-free cloths
- Utility knife
- Squeegee
- Heat gun
- Infrared thermometer
- Cotton wrap gloves
- Cutting tape
- Clean worktable
A Quick Overview of Vinyl Wrapping
4. Clean and Prep Your Mustang
The first thing you need to do is wash your Mustang with a non-wax car wash soap to get rid of any dirt and grime. Then, follow up by wiping the entire surface with isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth to remove any leftover contaminants. Wait for the surface to dry completely, then proceed to step 2.
5. Remove Exterior Parts
In order to get a seamless wrap, youll want these parts removed (if you can): Mirrors, door handles, badges and antennae. Taking these off makes the vinyl wrap smoother and saves you time in the long run.
6. Measure and Cut the Vinyl
Take measuring tape and measure out each portion of your Mustang that you want to wrap, adding a couple inches for handling. Better to have more vinyl than less. Cut the vinyl with a utility knife so that each piece is big enough to cover its intended area.
Wrapping The Mustang
7. Work on the Flatter Areas
First Note: If you're just getting your feet wet with wrapping a car, Weddle advises to begin sticking down the flatter/less intricate sections of your Mustang
8. Apply the Vinyl
Use a friend to carefully remove the backing from the vinyl, and then position it over top of your panel. Cover the vinylby pulling it and keeping even pressure while sticking to avoid any wrinkles or bubbles. Take the squeegee and start pushing from middle to edges, in order for vinyl get attached onto panel.
9. Heat and Stretch the Vinyl
Heat gun is also used for areas which have a curve shape, gently warm the vinyl with heat and roll them accordingly. Gently begin stretching the vinyl over any curves and use your finger to lay down on areas prone for wrinkles.
10. Create Seams Where Necessary
If a part in your Mustang needs to have seams, either use cutting tape or simply overlap the vinyl pieces. Make sure that the edges align so it looks more seamless. This way, you can make clean cuts (evenly and in a straight line) while not damaging the paint underneath using an X-Acto blade.
Finishing Touches
11. Wrap the Edges and Corners
Cut any extra with about a quarter inch over the sides of vinyl. Now trim the edges off as far as you can and using a heat gun-reflow adhesive, then hold down with squeegee fingering all along corners.
12. Final Heating and Bonding
Once all the panels are wrapped, go over each section of your Mustang with a heat gun to warm up the vinyl to about 212 °F (100°C). This will completely activate the adhesive and provide a more secure, long-lasting bond. Pop any bubbles with a pin or utility knife, then smooth the vinyl down.
13. Reassemble Your Mustang
Re-attach any removed parts such as mirrors and door handles after the vinyl has been set for at least a full 12 hours. Now, stand back and take a look at your car — you should now have the most unique Mustang on the road.
How to care for your vinyl wrapped Mustang
While this keeps the car looking new after your Supercharger installation and subsequent paint job, continue to wash it with mild soap regularly. Do not use wax or polish, as it can be harmful to the vinyl. If treated properly you should be able to your vinyl wrap stick around for 2-3 years and still have that fresh look on your Mustang.
Conclusion
Vinyl wrapping your Mustang is a fun color change and paint protection project for the do-it-yourselfer. If you have the proper tools, environment and patience you will be able to achieve a professional wrapping look at home. Whether you choose to go with the a new vibrant paint color or have them wrapped in matte, be assured that your Mustang will look like no other on the road.
