Registration Number Stickers won't stick

Registration number issues

For those individuals that have had problems trying to get vinyl graphics and numbers to adhere to their machines, let me give you a crash course in graphics. Hold on, because its gonna get a little technical...
The bodywork on most PWCs, snowmobiles, quads, and the like are molded from 'low surface energy' (LSE) plastics (polypropylene, polyethylene, etc.). These types of plastics inherently will not allow adhesives to grab onto the surface. This is the case with both vinyl graphics and also when trying to glue plastic to plastic). These materials have a 'surface tension rating' of around 30; this may not mean much to you until consider that the surface tension of glass is 1000. That's why decals stick so well to glass but not as well (or at all) to some plastics, as the glass has a much higher surface energy rating.
So although wiping the area with denatured alcohol is the right thing to do normally, it won't have any bearing on getting run-of-the-mill local sign shop-produced cast or calendared vinyl graphics to adhere to your machines. You will need to locate a sign or graphics company that explicitly offers high-tack, permanent adhesion graphics produced from material manufactured just for these applications. The registration decal package that SeaDoo dealers offer is made from this material, and as long as you don't mind your Spark numbers looking like nearly every other Spark across the country, it is the way to go. In the event that you would prefer numbers with colors that either match or accentuate your ski, contact your local sign shop and ask about this material. I also produce these custom graphics thru my company, so if you'd like to discuss ordering them you may PM me and I'll send more info to you.
Regardless of where you obtain your graphics, remember to include the step of cleaning diligently with denatured (or 70% isopropyl) alcohol. You can't over-clean the area where your graphics are to be applied!


Scott
Pendleton, IN

I cut a mask for the letters, stuck that to the Spark, and spray painted the numbers on. After towing the thing to Livingston (2 1/2 hours) at 75 mph, 3 hours of running, and towing it back home (another 2 1/2 hours) the letters look great! However, one of my state registration stickers blew off on the freeway.


Tip: clean the area well - do this in cool weather because the vinyl mask won't stick if the surface is hot - take your time and do several light coats instead of one heavy coat. Lots of color paints available.


Photo 1 - the mask applied
Photo 2 - Spray painted in matte black
Photo 3 - removed the mask
Photo 4 - The day I got home to show that they held up well

Hey friends, great discussion and DWA hits on a very good point. The low energy plastic is hard to get generic vinyl to adhere as suggested above.

Good news, there is a very easy and reliable solution. Easy to order and customize Sea-Doo Spark registration numbers endorsed by BRP Sea-Doo found here: http://www.scsunlimited.com/pwc-graphics/sea-doo/custom-registration-numbers.html

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
Set of (2) registration numbers - BRP Sea-Doo endorsed registration number stickers. Digitally printed on engineering grade high-tensile vinyl with aggressive, permanent pressure-sensitive adhesive. The special adhesive system is designed to adhere to “hard-to-stick” and low energy surfaces.

Simply enter your registration number(s), describe your prefered color choice and their designers send you a proof within a few hours. Shipped within one business day after approved using your preferred shipping method. Overnight shipping available. You will not be disappointed with the quality and longevity.

Cheers~!

kduff85 said:

Do these kits come with a square for my registration sticker to stick to? I don't just need the TX #### CF I also need something to stick the square registration to.

I am also looking for a solution for numbers as my registration just came in and I have to buy for 2 ski's.

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@kduff85, Simply place an order and describe the square sizing in the box provided. Our designers do the rest and send a digital proof for approval prior to production.

BRP Sea-Doo Endorsed Custom Registration Numbers

NitroHunter said:

I just placed an order with you guys, question do you have image showing the different colors on the actual characters, im undecided and waiting on the designer to send a digital proof

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How did the numbers turn out?

Our BRP endorsed registration numbers are very easy to order and apply as shown below.

I found this number kit at a marine shop. They are made by Hardline, and contain 4 copies of each letter and number in the kit. Package states "high tack" adhesive, but most importantly I think they look sick on my Trixx. PERFECT color and style. Tell me what you guys think. And I will update how they survived the water as soon as I take her out. Should be warm enough here very soon.