can I revive old decals?

I am doing a restoration on a car that has been built for about 10 years, and would like to be able to revive some of the decals used (namely the instruments - speedo, tacho, etc)....I can make my own decals as a last resort, but would prefer if there was some way I can 're-float' them from the model, then maybe re-use or scan them and do a new copy.

The decals / model are no longer in production so a new set is not a option.

Any help appreciated.

Thanks.

How would "revive" them if they are no longer in production?

How would "revive" them if they are no longer in production?

Revive doesn't mean buy new ones. It means to restore or bring back to life.

I'm thinking maybe using a knife to cut around the edge of the decal slightly, then using a very diluted down decal setting solution (Microsol), to let that soak into the speedo area several times for a while to lift it off. If you can't scan them, you could always take a macro shot of the decal with your camera then print it out, since you say you can make your own.

If by 'revive' you mean remove and reapply previously used decals, the real answer is no. It may not be absolutely impossible to remove a decal and then reuse it (never say never, I'm sure people have tried it and maybe a handful may have been successful once or twice), it is an utterly impractical option. Each decal will almost definitely be destroyed by removing it. Do not plan on being able to do it, and I'd advise that it's really not worth trying.

I'm thinking that if they were not applied with setting solution, solvent, or a clear top coat, you could probably soak in water, releasing the adhesive, then VERY CAREFULLY place the decal on some clear tape (not frosted) and scan them and re-print them. I built some ship models when I was a kid,and all the decals came off rather...umm...nicely when I had "war" in the swimming pool. lol

HI,

Thanks for the suggestions.

I doubt they were put on with any kind of decal solution (whoever originally built the car did a pretty average job of everything else!), so a good soaking may do it (watered down decal solution). I guess before I start the process I should tke a hi-res pic just in case, good idea KevHw.

Thanks again, will let you know what I try and how I get on.

With 10 years of possible in car temps reaching 120 deg. or more and ultra violet rays, I say it is impractical to expect anything but failure. You might find a panel in better condition than yours in a parts yard quicker and cheaper than hours of your labor trying this. What is your time worth. What would you charge someone to do this for them? Bet it wouldn't be cheap!!!

With 10 years of possible in car temps reaching 120 deg. or more and ultra violet rays, I say it is impractical to expect anything but failure. You might find a panel in better condition than yours in a parts yard quicker and cheaper than hours of your labor trying this. What is your time worth. What would you charge someone to do this for them? Bet it wouldn't be cheap!!!



Thanks for the info, but perhaps you should go back and check exactly which forum it is you are in! Last time I checked, not too many people kept their model car collection outside!

Sorry. Just running through new posts and didn't pay enough attention.

NO worries mate. Take it easy.