CLEAR SADDLEBAG PROTECTORS
Thread Starter
|
Banned
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 869
Likes: 0
From: Discovery Bay, CA
CLEAR SADDLEBAG PROTECTORS
Any of you guys that got the saddlebag protectors or any of the other kits have any problems with the install?
I'm looking for some feedback on installation, quality etc.
I'm looking for some feedback on installation, quality etc.
RE: CLEAR SADDLEBAG PROTECTORS
I'll be calling you and reporting on here when I go to put mine on. However, it will likely be into next month because I want to get some buffing and pin stripping done first, but gotta save some $$ to do it.
Thread Starter
|
Banned
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 869
Likes: 0
From: Discovery Bay, CA
RE: CLEAR SADDLEBAG PROTECTORS
Sounds good.
Leave the kit in the mailing tube I sent youuntil you're ready to install it. It's rolled up pretty tight. I also sent you a rubber squeegee.
Leave the kit in the mailing tube I sent youuntil you're ready to install it. It's rolled up pretty tight. I also sent you a rubber squeegee.
Road Master
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 1,004
Likes: 2
From: somewhere
RE: CLEAR SADDLEBAG PROTECTORS
I put my lid protectors on...finally...no trouble.
Followed the included directions. I did have a couple very small air bubbles that i didnt notice until after everything was dry. I just left it alone as I didnt know if I could re-stick the covers once they are initially set.
One minor issue.
One on the lid covers has a couple small lines in the actual film. It appears that something either rubbed or just a flaw from 3m. It is only on one side and the lines are about 1/4 in apart and straight. Almost looks like they were made by pressing down a ruler. Really no big deal...it will not hinder the way the film functions, just makes my new painted lids look...well...not so good. I guess its a trade off. I can post a pic if needed.
Now, i am not complaining, but you wanted feedback. (if it were a major issue with me, i would have already contacted you directly)..
IMHO, these protectors are great and should do the job for many years.
Followed the included directions. I did have a couple very small air bubbles that i didnt notice until after everything was dry. I just left it alone as I didnt know if I could re-stick the covers once they are initially set.
One minor issue.
One on the lid covers has a couple small lines in the actual film. It appears that something either rubbed or just a flaw from 3m. It is only on one side and the lines are about 1/4 in apart and straight. Almost looks like they were made by pressing down a ruler. Really no big deal...it will not hinder the way the film functions, just makes my new painted lids look...well...not so good. I guess its a trade off. I can post a pic if needed.
Now, i am not complaining, but you wanted feedback. (if it were a major issue with me, i would have already contacted you directly)..
IMHO, these protectors are great and should do the job for many years.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 2,847
Likes: 0
From: Missouri
RE: CLEAR SADDLEBAG PROTECTORS
I'm sorry but I have to say it again. I put that 3m film on the rear painted bumper on my wifes Mercedes suv because the dog would jump in the back and his nails would scratch it. I would never use the stuff again. That was about 6 years ago and now it looks yellow in places and flat black on the rest of it. When I tried to take it off to sell the car it came off in pieces about 1/4in by 1/4in for about 4 ft. Heat, adhesive remover nothing helped except a thin metal blade. 3 hrs later it came off and the bumper needed to be painted. Just keep an eye on it, if it starts to change appearence get it off NOW! I'm not trying to cut down another person product just telling you of my experience
Thread Starter
|
Banned
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 869
Likes: 0
From: Discovery Bay, CA
RE: CLEAR SADDLEBAG PROTECTORS
John,
Those marks are 'tracking' marks from the rollers on the plotter. The will disappear on thier own when film cures. Or, you may use straight rubbing alcohol (99%) on a soft cloth to saturate the area and wipe down. They should go away. If not, let me know and I'll ship you out another side to replace it.
Those marks are 'tracking' marks from the rollers on the plotter. The will disappear on thier own when film cures. Or, you may use straight rubbing alcohol (99%) on a soft cloth to saturate the area and wipe down. They should go away. If not, let me know and I'll ship you out another side to replace it.
Advanced
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 73
Likes: 1
RE: CLEAR SADDLEBAG PROTECTORS
I installed a set on my saddlebags. I too had a couple of tiny bubbles left that I didn't notice until it dried. No biggy. I do wish however that I had placed them to the outer and forward perimeter of the lids instead of centered. I find that the area most prone to scratches is that forward outer corner due to boot dragging. I took careful time to get them exact center, leaving that prone corner exposed. I wish I had it to do over. It seems like a great product.
Trending Topics
Thread Starter
|
Banned
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 869
Likes: 0
From: Discovery Bay, CA
RE: CLEAR SADDLEBAG PROTECTORS
Sorry to hear that you had problems with your PPF film on your Benz. From experience, sounds like you've had the unfortunate experience of having the'cheap stuff' installed...
The film that was used in your particular application sounds like it wasn't genuine 3MSGH film, nor was it clear-coated. Thus, leaving a cloudy looking appearance, a break down of the adhesive and yellowing due to the absence of UV filters.
Even 6 years ago the original Gen. 1 3M film was clear coated and would remove easily even after years of service. Currently, the film is in it's 3rd generation and is guaranteed not to fade, crack, peel, de-laminate or breaking down of the adhesivelike you mentioned.
In contrast, I've had this film on my 2000 Road King since new and have recently replaced it due to the cumulative road debris damage and chippingover 8 yearsand was able to remove all ofthe filmin about 15 minutes without any glue residue being left behind.
FYI...there are many different film types out there... clear-coated, non clear-coated, 4, 6, 8 or 12 mil, pressure sensitive, non pressure sensitive as well as differentcompanies making the same stuff... 3M, Avery, Maddico, Venture, Llumar etc., etc.
I've learned a long time ago it doesn't pay to cut corners on material quality. In the past 12 years of installing this stuff and over 10,000 kits I've personally installed, I've onlyhad to replace a handful of 3M kits due tofilm imperfectionsin run lots.
I paytwice as much $$for the 3M material... butyou know,it's well worth it in the long run to keep my customers happy.
Again, sorry for your bad experience!
The film that was used in your particular application sounds like it wasn't genuine 3MSGH film, nor was it clear-coated. Thus, leaving a cloudy looking appearance, a break down of the adhesive and yellowing due to the absence of UV filters.
Even 6 years ago the original Gen. 1 3M film was clear coated and would remove easily even after years of service. Currently, the film is in it's 3rd generation and is guaranteed not to fade, crack, peel, de-laminate or breaking down of the adhesivelike you mentioned.
In contrast, I've had this film on my 2000 Road King since new and have recently replaced it due to the cumulative road debris damage and chippingover 8 yearsand was able to remove all ofthe filmin about 15 minutes without any glue residue being left behind.
FYI...there are many different film types out there... clear-coated, non clear-coated, 4, 6, 8 or 12 mil, pressure sensitive, non pressure sensitive as well as differentcompanies making the same stuff... 3M, Avery, Maddico, Venture, Llumar etc., etc.
I've learned a long time ago it doesn't pay to cut corners on material quality. In the past 12 years of installing this stuff and over 10,000 kits I've personally installed, I've onlyhad to replace a handful of 3M kits due tofilm imperfectionsin run lots.
I paytwice as much $$for the 3M material... butyou know,it's well worth it in the long run to keep my customers happy.
Again, sorry for your bad experience!
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Thread Starter
|
Banned
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 869
Likes: 0
From: Discovery Bay, CA
RE: CLEAR SADDLEBAG PROTECTORS
Thanks for your feedback!
To address the 'bubble' issue, there are several things to consider...
Is it air or is it water?... if it's water, it will evaporate. If it's air, the only remedy after it has dries would be to fill up a small syringe (diabetic type) with 70%-99% isopropyl alcohol and 'inject' into the bubble. This will 'activate' the adhesive and you can push out the remaining alcohol with your thumb... and your done!
Also, the ever so smallest piece of dust or lint could cause this as well and the above 'fix' would diminish the size of the bubble. You may also use the back of a spoon over a piece of the release liner and rub back and forth to get rid of any visual imperfections from the bubble.
As far as the alignment, I'll note that in the instructions for the next person so that they are aware of the foreward and outward recommendedplacement.
I'm glad that the install was easy enough for those who responded.
Here's a tip for you guys...
Get a bottle of 99% Isopropyl alcohol and keep it handy. As paint will scratch, so will the film. However, the alcohol solutionwill remove scratches from the film very easily should they get scratched.
I'd be glad send you another kit soyou could correct the placement. But, Ineed to sell some morekits beforeI am able to do so.
Currently, this is my only source of income until I've fully recovered from my accident, but please keep me posted on the durability and I'll work something out for you.
Thanks again for our feedback!
To address the 'bubble' issue, there are several things to consider...
Is it air or is it water?... if it's water, it will evaporate. If it's air, the only remedy after it has dries would be to fill up a small syringe (diabetic type) with 70%-99% isopropyl alcohol and 'inject' into the bubble. This will 'activate' the adhesive and you can push out the remaining alcohol with your thumb... and your done!
Also, the ever so smallest piece of dust or lint could cause this as well and the above 'fix' would diminish the size of the bubble. You may also use the back of a spoon over a piece of the release liner and rub back and forth to get rid of any visual imperfections from the bubble.
As far as the alignment, I'll note that in the instructions for the next person so that they are aware of the foreward and outward recommendedplacement.
I'm glad that the install was easy enough for those who responded.
Here's a tip for you guys...
Get a bottle of 99% Isopropyl alcohol and keep it handy. As paint will scratch, so will the film. However, the alcohol solutionwill remove scratches from the film very easily should they get scratched.
I'd be glad send you another kit soyou could correct the placement. But, Ineed to sell some morekits beforeI am able to do so.
Currently, this is my only source of income until I've fully recovered from my accident, but please keep me posted on the durability and I'll work something out for you.
Thanks again for our feedback!