1. The body of the vehicle must be clean and dry to achieve the best adhesion.
2. The pressure-sensitive adhesive on the molding must not be contaminated during the application.
3. The molding must be applied to achieve complete contact (bond) of the adhesive to the vehicle. (i.e. maximum wet-out).

1. The installation area should be kept reasonably clean. Any airborne dust, oils, etc. may contaminate the vehicle or BSM adhesive and reduce the bond of the tape.

1. The vehicle surface should be washed with an appropriate solvent, one commonly used system is a 70% mixture of Isopropyl Alcohol and water (Rubbing Alcohol). To assure removal of all contaminants it may be necessary to first wipe with TG Prep, then use the 70% Isopropyl Alcohol mixture.
   * Use clean lint free wiping cloths or disposable wipes such as Kimwipes.
   * Reprocessed rags should not be used as they may contain wax or residue.

   

2. After washing, the vehicle surface should be thoroughly dried. Again use a clean, dry, lint free cloth.
3. Vehicle surface application temperatures of 80’F (26’C) to 110’F (44’C) are recommended for best tape adhesion. The warmer surface will help wet-out the adhesive on the tape.
   During cold weather applications the vehicle surface can be heated with a heat gun or heat lamps, but do not heat the surface of the molding.
   Application of the BSM at temperatures below 64’F (17’C) or above 110’F (44’C) must be avoided.
   

   

1. The BSM should be stored at room temperature in a clean dry area. Cold temperatures require heating to warm the molding to the proper application temperature (i.e. Floor heater of vehicle). There is no damage to the tape or molding stored at colder temperatures, but moisture and condensation must be avoided.
2. The molding can be heated up to 100’F (38’C) for application. This will soften the molding, making it easier to conform to the vehicle contours, as well as improve adhesive wet-out.
3. The liner on the adhesive should not be removed until application to the vehicle. This will help prevent contamination of the adhesive surface.

1. Align the molding with a key feature such as the front and rear bumpers or with a body line to ensure proper molding alignment. Placing ½" masking tape along the desired installation area is an excellent guide for applying the molding straight.
   

   

   
   
2. Use molding cutters to trim the molding at door jams and body seams. Be certain to leave enough room for the door to open properly after the molding has been installed. (Bevel cut if necessary).
   

   

3. Remove the liner from the tape as you are applying the molding to the vehicle. Be careful not to contaminate the adhesive. Common sources of contamination are: oil from the applicator hands, dust or lint from clothing, work tables, or the floor. Do not touch the adhesive at any time. Contaminated moldings should not be used
   

   

4. Apply the moldings with a rolling motion to prevent entrapment of air between the tape and the vehicle surface. Use firm hand pressure to ensure good adhesion of the molding.
   

   

5. A roll down with a hard rubber hand roller is recommended to assure complete wet-out of the adhesive to the vehicle surface. Apply firm pressure while rolling the molding to properly wet-out the adhesive.
   

   

   
   
6. Check the edges of the molding to assure good tape adhesion. Re-roll with more pressure as necessary to achieve a good bond.
   

   

For additional assistance please contact
a Trim-Gard customer service representative at 519-681-1090.