Harley Davidson Paint Protection: Installing A Transparent Guard Kit

The Harley-Davidson transparent paint guard kit is designed to protect your paint job from bugs, boot scuffs, and road debris. The kit includes 10 or 12 pieces of crystal-clear material that are pre-cut to fit the rear fender, trunk, and side covers. The application process is similar to that of tinted window film, and scratches can be repaired with a heat gun. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to install the Harley-Davidson transparent paint guard kit, so you can keep your motorcycle looking its best.

Prepare the surface

Before installing the Harley-Davidson transparent paint guard kit, it is important to prepare the surface of your motorcycle to ensure proper adhesion and a smooth finish. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

• Clean the Surface: Start by thoroughly cleaning the areas where you will be applying the transparent paint guard. Use a mild soap or detergent and water to remove any dirt, grease, or road grime. Make sure to rinse the surface with clean water and dry it completely before moving on to the next step.
• Degrease the Surface: To ensure that the paint guard adheres properly, it is important to remove any remaining grease or oil from the surface. Use a degreaser or solvent that is safe for use on automotive paint. Apply the degreaser with a clean cloth and follow the instructions on the product for proper usage and safety precautions.
• Scuff the Surface: Lightly scuffing the surface of the paint can help create a better bond for the paint guard. Use a fine-grit sandpaper and gently sand the areas where the paint guard will be applied. Be careful not to over-sand or apply too much pressure, as you only want to create a light texture on the surface. Wipe away any dust or residue with a tack cloth or a damp cloth.
• Prepare the Edges: If you are applying the paint guard to areas with sharp edges or corners, take the time to prepare those edges properly. Slightly round or bevel the edges to reduce the risk of the paint guard lifting or peeling over time. You can use a fine-grit sandpaper or a file to carefully shape the edges.
• Final Cleaning: After you have completed the above steps, perform a final cleaning of the surface to remove any remaining dust or residue. Use a tack cloth or a damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the entire area where the paint guard will be applied. Ensure that the surface is completely dry before beginning the installation.

By following these steps, you will ensure that the surface of your Harley-Davidson motorcycle is properly prepared for the installation of the transparent paint guard kit, resulting in a smooth, seamless finish that will protect your paint job.

Apply the transparent skin

To apply the transparent skin, begin by cleaning the areas where you will be applying the film. This includes the leading and inner surface of the rear fender, the fascia panel of the trunk, and the side covers. Ensure that these areas are free of any dirt or debris before proceeding.

Once the surfaces are clean, you can start applying the transparent skin. The skin is pre-cut to fit the specified areas, so you need to carefully align the pieces with the corresponding surfaces. Take your time with this step to ensure accurate placement.

When handling the transparent skin, be careful not to touch the adhesive side. Use a squeegee or a similar tool to smooth out any air bubbles or creases as you apply the skin. Work slowly and methodically to achieve a smooth and wrinkle-free finish.

After applying each piece, use a heat gun to gently apply heat to the surface. This will help activate the adhesive and create a strong bond between the transparent skin and the motorcycle's surface. Be careful not to overheat any particular area, and maintain a safe distance with the heat gun to avoid damage.

Finally, once all the pieces are in place, go over the entire surface again with the squeegee to ensure that all air bubbles are removed and the skin is securely adhered. Check for any visible creases or imperfections and address them accordingly.

Smooth out air bubbles

Air bubbles can be a nuisance when applying stickers, but there are several ways to smooth them out and achieve a flawless finish. Firstly, it is important to prepare the surface by ensuring it is clean, dry, and smooth. Use soap and water, rubbing alcohol, or a damp microfiber cloth to remove any dust, dirt, grime, or oils. This step is crucial as it prevents the formation of air pockets underneath the sticker.

Once the surface is prepared, it's time to apply the sticker with careful attention to avoid trapping air bubbles. Gently peel back a corner of the sticker and apply it to the surface. Then, gradually smooth out the rest of the sticker as you remove it from the paper. It is recommended to press down from the centre outwards to avoid trapping air.

If air bubbles do appear, there are several techniques to remove them. For small bubbles, you can use your thumb or finger to press down gently for a few seconds until the air dissipates. Alternatively, you can use a needle, pin, or razor blade to puncture the bubble and release the trapped air. Be careful not to scratch the surface underneath the sticker.

For larger bubbles, gentle heat can be applied using a blow dryer or hair dryer set to low heat. Hold the dryer 3-4 inches away from the bubble and heat it for a few seconds until the air expands and exits from the sides. Alternatively, you can use a squeegee or a credit card to gently guide the bubble towards the edge of the sticker. This process may weaken the adhesive, so patience and precision are crucial.

With these techniques in your toolkit, you can effectively smooth out air bubbles and achieve a clean and professional finish when applying stickers.

Trim excess film

Trimming excess film is a crucial step in the process of installing a paint protection film (PPF). It requires careful attention to detail and precision to ensure a clean and seamless finish. Here's a step-by-step guide to trimming the excess film:

Step 1: Prepare the Right Tools

Before beginning the trimming process, ensure you have the necessary tools. This includes a good-quality razor blade or film cutting tool and a blade holder. Carbon-tipped blades are extremely sharp and can easily cut through paint, so handle them with care.

Step 2: Cut the Film

If you're working with pre-cut kits, remove any excess film from the template. Cut the film carefully along the desired size and shape, leaving a few extra inches on each side for trimming. Take your time and follow the contours and body lines of the vehicle for a precise cut.

Step 3: Smooth Out Bubbles

Once you've made the initial cut, use a squeegee to smooth out any air bubbles. Work from the centre of the film outwards, maintaining gentle and consistent pressure to prevent shifting.

Step 4: Trim with Precision

Now, use the razor blade to carefully trim away the excess film, following the contours of the vehicle. Take your time with this step, as it significantly impacts the final result. Ensure the gaps are not too large or wavy, as this can affect the overall appearance.

Step 5: Seal the Edges

After trimming, use a heat gun to apply heat to the edges of the film. This step is crucial in preventing dirt and contamination from collecting under the film. Press along the edges with your finger to ensure a tight seal.

Final Thoughts:

Trimming excess film is a delicate process that requires patience and a steady hand. By taking the necessary time and following the steps outlined above, you can achieve a professional-looking finish that will protect your vehicle's paintwork. Remember to work in a clean, dust-free environment to minimize potential contaminants.

Remove scratches with a heat gun

The Transparent Paint Guard Kit for Harley-Davidson Trike models is a transparent skin that protects your paintwork from bugs, boot scuffs, and road debris. The application process is similar to that of tinted window film. The kit can be removed and replaced when it is no longer cosmetically appealing.

The kit's material can be scratched, but these scratches can be "healed" by applying a small amount of heat with a heat gun.

Firstly, ensure that the surface is spotlessly clean and free of any protectorants. Then, turn the heat gun to a medium setting and hold it around a foot away from the scratch. Wave the heat gun in a back-and-forth motion over the scratch until the plastic begins to shine. Repeat this process for any other scratched areas.

It is important not to hold the heat gun in one place for too long, as this can cause the plastic to dip. It is also important to note that this method may not work for black plastic, as it can cause a haze. Additionally, this method will not remove deep gouges.

After removing the scratches, you can go over the panels with a protectorant to restore them to their original appearance.

Frequently asked questions