Body wrap questions.

[TheJDMan]

I was reading about the Optima challenge camaro and realized the graphics are a wrap. So now I have a number of questions. Has anyone done a wrap in lieu of painted on graphics on their personal ride? Where does one go to get wraps installed? How do you go about designing a wrap? What kind of damage is done to the paint when the wrap is removed? How long does a wrap typically last? Finally, approxomately how much does a wrap cost? My long term plans are to repaint my project but short term I'm wondering if a wrap would be a cost effective way to sort of cover up my paint.

[Global Warmer]

Check out Ape Wraps they are the main company they are very popular with race cars due to the fact they

keep your wrap on file and can print out any pannel instead of having to re wrap the entire car

[Draginutz]

1) Has anyone done a wrap in lieu of painted on graphics on their personal ride?
I install vinyl graphics and wraps for a living. The cool thing about it is if you really like the design for a few years then want to change it you just peel it off and apply a new one.

2) Where does one go to get wraps installed?
The shop I work for is in Centennial CO. But all major cities should have a good wrap company

3) How do you go about designing a wrap?
Any good company should have a graphic artist that can work with a design you have already or start from scratch.

4) What kind of damage is done to the paint when the wrap is removed?
Here's the tricky part. If the wrap is done correctly the paint will be just like it was the day the wrap was installed. However if the installers cut on the vehicle (which most will) and they go too deep they will scratch if not cut through the paint causing rust and paint flaking issues. There will most likely be some adhesive primer used on some small areas that will need to be removed with a strong de greaser that if used incorrectly can damage the clear coat. The thing most people don't realize is a wrap doesn't magically hide flaws, dents, or rust and is designed to adhere to paint or clear coat (although it will stick to bare metal and other things I've found it doesn't stick as long).

5) How long does a wrap typically last?
3M/Avery (laminated) Products 3-5 years in direct sunlight everyday. However you can make that last longer by regular waxing and keeping it clean. Hoods, roofs, and deck lids will fade and crack before anything else being "closer" to the sun. Also note that the laminate (at least the stuff where I work) will have a "factory" orange peel look. I think (not 100%) that you can get super glossy/smooth laminate though.

6) Finally, approximately how much does a wrap cost?
It depends on many factors (from artwork, material, and labor) but I would guess you could spend from 1000-3500 easy on a FULL wrap.

Here's a wrap I did for the local Navy recruiter.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/jeep1-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/jeep2-1.jpg

[dontlifttoshift]

This should answer all the questions.

http://www.hotrod.com/techarticles/body/hrdp_0910_custom_vinyl_wrap/index.html