So-Called Tank Protector

comet said:

I use clear film, photos in this thread -

https://www.accessnorton.com/NortonCommando/new-owner-first-24hrs.24510/page-7#post-364141

It was applied using soapy water. It's used on cars and bikes and the supplier says it does have adhesive although they haven't had any issues with it affecting lacquer. Having said that, I won't be removing it any time soon to find out.

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Well you’re a better man than me Comet, I bought that kit and, try as I might, I could not get it right!

It all ended up in the bin.

comet said:

I use clear film, photos in this thread -

https://www.accessnorton.com/NortonCommando/new-owner-first-24hrs.24510/page-7#post-364141

It was applied using soapy water. It's used on cars and bikes and the supplier says it does have adhesive although they haven't had any issues with it affecting lacquer. Having said that, I won't be removing it any time soon to find out.

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Ahh.. that's were I saw it!

Yes, this is the way to go.

I've replaced numerous stripes on different sportbikes with repair/replacement transfers supplied by the manufacturer. The material was thin film plastic with colored stripes.

Removing the original with a hairdryer, and fitting the new one with soapy water, then working out the water and bubbles with a sponge.

Never noticed any surface/paint problems under the original after removal.

BritTwit said:

I've got one of these pads and was preparing to install it.
Think I'll risk some jacket rash instead.

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I've had some conversations with Steve and he's been very helpful sending me a video of a pad which he removed after several years with no effect so I'm still of the opinion that the problem was with the lacquer. Max at Norton is looking into it for me as well so watch this space....

Britfan60 said:

Metallic paint is a strange animal. Any slight shaging makes the light reflect differently. How old was the paint when you applied the protector? Just a guess, but the paint may not have been fully set. I'll only apply a protector if and when my tank looks scratched.

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Inclined to agree with you - paint was only a few months old with almost no sun on it. (ie a typical English Summer)

Fast Eddie said:

Clive, that is a bummer!


What are you going to do?

I think in your shoes I’d put one back on and leave it in place. I think...

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I am inclined to put one back on again or I have been toying with the idea of getting a graphic painted on in its place....

Clive said:

I've had some conversations with Steve and he's been very helpful sending me a video of a pad which he removed after several years with no effect so I'm still of the opinion that the problem was with the lacquer. Max at Norton is looking into it for me as well so watch this space....

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Strange that its so perfectly lifted the laquer only... like there is no bond to the silver paint.

Clive said:

I've had some conversations with Steve and he's been very helpful sending me a video of a pad which he removed after several years with no effect so I'm still of the opinion that the problem was with the lacquer. Max at Norton is looking into it for me as well so watch this space....

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Good.
Hopefully a proper determination can be made as to whether the pad adhesive or tank coating caused the problem.