[DMCForum] Installing Bumper Letters

["deloreanfl" <ericp@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hello Group,

I wanted to share my good experience with all of you on installing 
the Bumper Letters (correctly stated: the Stainless letter inserts 
for the rear fascia.)

First, a little "CYA". I do not endorse any particular 
vendor/manufacturer over any other. I simply state what "I" used and 
what worked for "ME". We are fortunate enough to have many good 
quality, reputable and consistant supplies to our De Lorean groups. 

I purchased my particular letters through PJGrady. I must say I was 
quite surprized at the quality and thickness of these letters - I 
didn't expect them to be as robust as they actually are. The package 
came with a scotch-bright pad, and alcohol pad and the letters come 
prepared with 3M - high strength adhesive tape already applied.

STEP 1:  Clean, clean, clean. Then clean again. Prepare some dish 
detergent (I used Dawn) in warm water. Clean the recessed lettering 
on the fascia. Clean it multiple times using a sponge and the scotch-
bright pad. You want to remove all traces of oil, grime, oxidation 
and years of Armor-All (or any other) type protectors. This also 
serves to lightly scuff the surface for better adhesion. Rinse with 
clear water then allow to dry.

STEP 2:  Clean the surfaces again with the alcohol prep pad. This 
removes any remaining emolients and oils. Allow to completely dry.

STEP 3:  Using a heat gun (carefully!) or a hair dryer, warm the 
bumper surface to a fairly warm temperature. Becareful here, don't go 
crazy and melt your bumper! I heated the surface until it was "just" 
uncomfortable to touch. Immediately remove the protective backing 
from the first letter, then gently heat the adhesive surface of the 
letter. Quickly and carefully press the letter into place and gently 
but firmly rub your finger around the face of the letter. This makes 
certain it is seated, and any air pockets are removed. 

REPEAT Step 3 for each letter.

I followed these steps completely, and you would be surprised - the 
letters are on like CEMENT!  And here in Florida, surfaces can get 
quite hot in the sun!

I have read other stories on other lists that suggest using Loctite - 
Blue. This may also work well. I don't know, I haven't tried it.

I can say the adhesive tape on the PJGrady letters is a special high 
strength adhesive. The addition of heat not only "activates" the 
adhesive, but also allows the composition of the rubber bumper 
to "relax" which aids in adding strength to the bond when the surface 
cools and contracts with the adhesive. 

I'm certain most of you have seen pictures of D's with the letters 
applied. Let me tell you, pictures do not do them justice! They look 
great. To see the sunlight create a "moving glimmer" across them as 
you walk past - is really quite remarkable. It so perfectly matches 
the body of the car...you're left wondering why they didn't just do 
it at the factory!

Good Luck, and have fun.

Eric 
Dunedin, FL
VIN# 5557




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