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kinky kitty
Cruiser Expert
PT Cruiser Club Member
Posted: Feb 27, 2008, 12:05 PM
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Re: [Dsmith] Ebay flames
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ghost flames are soo cool!!
before buying check out purplejalopy.com also.pt cruisers is a favorite with them.
ron
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When people see a cat's litter box, they always ask, 'Oh, have you got a cat?' Just once I want to say, 'No, it's for company!'
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Posts: 102 | From: portland,tn
| Registered: Jul 26, 2007, 5:45 AM
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sent1
Cruiser Expert
Posted: Feb 28, 2008, 8:07 AM
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Re: [Dsmith] Ebay flames
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 I got decals for PTs 3 years ago. They were chrome look finish. It didn't take long for them to start getting swirls in them. In that respect I think they are less durable than a car finish. There are a couple of places where they got hit with a door and so now have tears in them. Went to a sign maker who also does vinyl and found matching material to patch with. Looks so-so. Also, they are cracking just from the elements. On one PT I have started removing the decals. Its not an easy process--even with a heat gun. If I had it to do again, I definitely would go with paint especially now that I know a guy that likes to do side jobs for cheap.
We got the decals cause we didn't have the money it would take to go with paint. Nothing wrong with that.
That's my 2 Sents  worth. The important thing is that you do what you want, just know what you're getting into and be happy with it.
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DC1 #1610--5-speed. Its got some stuff.
'03 Inferno Red--Its getting some stuff too!
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Posts: 424 | From: Salem, Oregon
| Registered: Apr 14, 2007, 8:56 AM
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ptgeebee
Cruiser Addict
PT Cruiser Club Member
Posted: Feb 28, 2008, 9:24 AM
Post #4 of 26
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Re: [Dsmith] Ebay flames
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Had vinyl ghost flames on for about 3 years when they started to come apart. Then had flames painted on which I should have done in the first place. If you have someone that can paint them on they'll will be better in the long run.
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East Tennessee PT
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Posts: 758 | From: Maryville, TN
| Registered: Nov 14, 2004, 4:53 AM
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i_like_retro
Cruiser Expert
Posted: Feb 28, 2008, 11:19 AM
Post #5 of 26
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Re: [ptgeebee] Ebay flames
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My brother used to do vinyl signs for the local community college and now has his own cutter. He says that after about a year, the vinyl actually chemically bonds to the cars urethane(sp?) paint. That's why it's so hard to get back off. He also told me that a good outdoor grade vinyl should last 3-5 years before starting to show wear.
I agree with the others, if you can afford paint, do it that way. If you're going to go vinyl, buy a couple extra and change them out every year or so.
Take it easy,
-Ray
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Posts: 239 | From: Cedar Hill, MO
| Registered: Apr 18, 2007, 11:35 PM
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LeoCruiser
Cruiser Expert
Posted: Feb 28, 2008, 3:41 PM
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Re: [sent1] Ebay flames
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Hey, Sent1
When you had to remove the vinyl decals, was the paint discolored in any way on the car. That is the reason that I have not put on any vinyl decals. I do not want any real ghost flames after the flames have come off.
Thanks
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"I rate enthusiasm even above professional skill."
-Ed Appleton
My PT:
http://www.ptcruiserclub.org/...ut14831/gallery1.htm
2002 Steel Blue
Classic Edition
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Posts: 290 | From: N/A
| Registered: Jul 3, 2007, 8:23 PM
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sent1
Cruiser Expert
Posted: Feb 29, 2008, 6:02 AM
Post #7 of 26
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Re: [LeoCruiser] Ebay flames
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The guy that painted the black on my dreamer told me the same thing. However, the one I started removing the decal from is linen gold and showed no sign of a discoloration issue. Believe me, I was looking. It might be different with a darker color like yours. I think the worse paint fade occurs when when the finish isn't cared for. So, if you take care of it there shouldn't be an such an issue when you remove decal. I'm not a pro, just somebody with limited experience. I can simply state that after 3 years there wasn't any change so far.
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DC1 #1610--5-speed. Its got some stuff.
'03 Inferno Red--Its getting some stuff too!
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Posts: 424 | From: Salem, Oregon
| Registered: Apr 14, 2007, 8:56 AM
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LeoCruiser
Cruiser Expert
Posted: Feb 29, 2008, 1:31 PM
Post #8 of 26
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Re: [sent1] Ebay flames
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Thanks for the info. Maybe I will give those flames a second thought.
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"I rate enthusiasm even above professional skill."
-Ed Appleton
My PT:
http://www.ptcruiserclub.org/...ut14831/gallery1.htm
2002 Steel Blue
Classic Edition
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Posts: 290 | From: N/A
| Registered: Jul 3, 2007, 8:23 PM
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mikemcl
Cruiser Addict
Posted: Feb 29, 2008, 6:59 PM
Post #9 of 26
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Re: [Dsmith] Ebay flames
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Don't stick nuthin to ya car kidz.
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2005 Touring Edition Convertible
Turbo 2.4L LITE
Automatic, cool vanilla, faux Street Edition badging, K&N drop in filter, modded airbox, mini-chrome side flames, chrome gas cap cover, customized rear mud flaps, flying siberian husky fur when top dropped.
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Posts: 790 | From: NJ
| Registered: Jun 29, 2005, 6:48 PM
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sent1
Cruiser Expert
Posted: Mar 1, 2008, 8:28 AM
Post #10 of 26
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Re: [mikemcl] Ebay flames
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Quote:
Don't stick nuthin to ya car kidz.
By all means, please explain your experiences...
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DC1 #1610--5-speed. Its got some stuff.
'03 Inferno Red--Its getting some stuff too!
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Posts: 424 | From: Salem, Oregon
| Registered: Apr 14, 2007, 8:56 AM
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mikemcl
Cruiser Addict
Posted: Mar 1, 2008, 2:48 PM
Post #11 of 26
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Re: [sent1] Ebay flames
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I've never done it, but have seen vehicles which have and either the item is faded and ugly or they have tried to back out of it and it looks awful...or they did it themsleves and it looks all dodgy and silly.
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2005 Touring Edition Convertible
Turbo 2.4L LITE
Automatic, cool vanilla, faux Street Edition badging, K&N drop in filter, modded airbox, mini-chrome side flames, chrome gas cap cover, customized rear mud flaps, flying siberian husky fur when top dropped.
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Posts: 790 | From: NJ
| Registered: Jun 29, 2005, 6:48 PM
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sent1
Cruiser Expert
Posted: Mar 2, 2008, 7:30 AM
Post #12 of 26
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Re: [mikemcl] Ebay flames
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You bring up one of the best points! If you don't get on there right it will not look good! I agree that over time they will not look as good. they will scratch (swirl marks) easier than the cars finish because its softer. I sure wouldn't want to go through the process of changing them out every couple years either.
As we have done here, we got the decal we really wanted to see on the side of the car. My wife is very happy with it. As soon as she decides what she wants painted on the car the decal is coming off. I think thats the best use of a decal.
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DC1 #1610--5-speed. Its got some stuff.
'03 Inferno Red--Its getting some stuff too!
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Posts: 424 | From: Salem, Oregon
| Registered: Apr 14, 2007, 8:56 AM
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i_like_retro
Cruiser Expert
Posted: Mar 5, 2008, 5:17 PM
Post #13 of 26
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Re: [sent1] Ebay flames
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Quote:
You bring up one of the best points! If you don't get on there right it will not look good!
Just in case anyone gets a decal and wants to make sure they get in in the right place:
Take a spay bottle with a "mist" setting and clean it out REALLY good.
Fill it most of the way with water. Put in a few drops of Dawn (It doesn't take much!!)
Clean the area well before applying. Spray the area with the soap and water solution.
Stick on the decal. It will be able to be moved around until it's in *just* the right spot.
Us an application squeegy or a credit card to squeeze out any air bubbles and most of the soapy water.
Wipe away any excess water. Leave the application tape on until the area has a chance to dry.
Once dry, peel off the application tape.
And there you have it. Perfectly placed decals.
-Ray
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Posts: 239 | From: Cedar Hill, MO
| Registered: Apr 18, 2007, 11:35 PM
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cruzman
Cruiser Buff
PT Cruiser Club Member
Posted: Mar 5, 2008, 5:41 PM
Post #14 of 26
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Re: [i_like_retro] Ebay flames
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Always , follow Rule #1
1. Paint before decal
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Member of PTCC, Space Coast PT Cruisers Club
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Posts: 79 | From: Rockledge FL
| Registered: Jun 12, 2005, 2:21 PM
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sent1
Cruiser Expert
Posted: Mar 6, 2008, 6:25 AM
Post #15 of 26
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Re: [i_like_retro] Ebay flames
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Just like window tint!
That's what I did alright!
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DC1 #1610--5-speed. Its got some stuff.
'03 Inferno Red--Its getting some stuff too!
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Posts: 424 | From: Salem, Oregon
| Registered: Apr 14, 2007, 8:56 AM
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Dsmith
Cruiser Fan
Posted: Mar 7, 2008, 9:37 PM
Post #16 of 26
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Re: [sent1] Ebay flames
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Thanks to everyone for thier coments.
If I had the money I would definatly get them painted on. but being on a budget I will have to go the vinyl route.
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Posts: 31 | From: S'toon Sk Canada
| Registered: Feb 23, 2008, 2:13 PM
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sent1
Cruiser Expert
Posted: Mar 8, 2008, 5:35 AM
Post #17 of 26
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Re: [Dsmith] Ebay flames
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And that's alright! Now you have help in getting them on too. Be patient in your selection to make sure you really like what your getting. Be patient when putting them on so you get them in the same place on each side. Enjoy!
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DC1 #1610--5-speed. Its got some stuff.
'03 Inferno Red--Its getting some stuff too!
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Posts: 424 | From: Salem, Oregon
| Registered: Apr 14, 2007, 8:56 AM
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MICKEY41
Cruiser Addict
Posted: Mar 8, 2008, 5:52 AM
Post #18 of 26
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Re: [Dsmith] Ebay flames
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 Hi, As you can see I have the vinyl and like you I choose it because it is cheaper than paint. I took mine to an installer and they did a good job for me. I am worried than in a couple years I will have to take them off and about the damage they will leave. I have had mine since August and so far so good. Be sure you know what you want as now I wish I would have stuck with all chrome, although Pete is one of a kind and gets so much attention. I did get pin stripping on the hood and rear that ties in the red and I love my pin stripping. Good Luck with your decision, Mickey 
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2005 ELECTRIC BLUE CLASSIC
Being happy doesn't mean that everything is perfect.
It means that you have decided to look beyond the imperfections
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Posts: 884 | From: Gilbert, Arizona
| Registered: Apr 24, 2007, 8:45 AM
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Dsmith
Cruiser Fan
Posted: Mar 8, 2008, 1:12 PM
Post #19 of 26
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Re: [MICKEY41] Ebay flames
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So to ask the original Question again. Has anyone bought their decals from Dan's decals?
I'm thinking of getting hood and side flame in shadow. it's like Ghost flames but shows darker rather than lighter.
here's a link to his site.
http://www.dansdecals.com/
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Posts: 31 | From: S'toon Sk Canada
| Registered: Feb 23, 2008, 2:13 PM
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MICKEY41
Cruiser Addict
Posted: Mar 9, 2008, 7:45 AM
Post #20 of 26
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Re: [Dsmith] Ebay flames
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I can't help you about Dan's Decals- I got mine from www.purplejalopy.com
Great customer service from Jody. Mickey
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2005 ELECTRIC BLUE CLASSIC
Being happy doesn't mean that everything is perfect.
It means that you have decided to look beyond the imperfections
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Posts: 884 | From: Gilbert, Arizona
| Registered: Apr 24, 2007, 8:45 AM
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2_2COOL
Cruiser Veteran
Posted: Mar 9, 2008, 12:32 PM
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Re: [MICKEY41] Ebay flames
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I would think most people who can afford paint, don't really consider vinyl in most cases... I had a lot of advice against it before I did it. But....let me give you some pros & cons from someone who's been there.
I've had flames on my PT since it was a few months old. 3 sets over 8 years on a car that's stored outside 24/7. The first flames cracked & OMG it was a nightmare removing them.It took WEEKS & the vinyl was coming off in pepper sized flakes with a heat gun, on 100 degree days in the sun, with Goop Off too. NEVER AGAIN will I leave vinyl on the paint for more than 2 years. I've found 2 years to be the magic mark. They still come up relatively easy at that point, at least in large sheets. The first flames that crack DID damage my paint, I bought a second stock hood off someone for a little less than the price of repainting my original one (so I had something to practice airbrushing on). The second set I removed just as I started noticing wear to it (loss of luster), and the whole car took maybe 2 hours. That's removing, removing adhesive, clay bar-ing & rewaxing the area. The 3rd set of flames we put on last Spring. If you are confident, have a helper, and can find Rapid Tac application fluid you should be able to get good looking results. I used a supplied plastic squegee & covered one end with felt for 'after application' perfecting. The job is NOT easy, but definitely do-able if you are competent at measuring , following directions & staying CALM. Never apply large sheets in any type of breeze, you'll be sorry.
Saying a DIY application looks like crap is untrue. My husband & I have done all mine & we had the local sign shop ask us who did it...it was the best install he'd ever seen!! Made us feel good.
I have found that automatic car washes are the WORST thing you can do to the vinyl. That & waxing them with any petrolium based chemicals. They are both too harsh. I never waxed my second set, nor took my car to a car wash (hand wash only) and the second & this 3rd set of flames look a million times better for it.
I say go for vinyl if that's what you can afford. Just use your head & watch them. Take care of them carefully (like the rest of the car) and remove them when they start showing wear. If you do, you should have no problem.
PS- Those particular flames you linked were made by a company that PT people used to use very often. I heard good things about the product & the seller. They used to have a website...flameit.com, but I think mainly sell on eBay now. Any vinyl rated 3-8 years should last 2-2.5 (and not much longer on an outdoor ALL THE TIME car, perhaps garaging it would make a real difference)...
Anything less than 3 years vinyl is probably thin, cheap, non-colorfast garbage that won't make it a year. Chrome & Gold films are not a great choice for long term. I believe Rich of Streamlinedesign.com says about 8 months on those?!!I have used both shade shifting & ultrametallics with great looking results. I am stopped at lights quite often & asked by other motorists ,"Who did your paint"?
Close-up Photo of self installed vinyl:
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~Rachael / HomeGrown Customs
Happily Cruisin' my thoroughly modified 2001 Touring since
4-12-00!
Contact me for custom made interior panels to complete the look of your Willpak brand exterior overlay.
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Posts: 3596 | From: Fremont, CA. USA
| Registered: May 2, 2000, 12:00 AM
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MICKEY41
Cruiser Addict
Posted: Mar 9, 2008, 5:13 PM
Post #22 of 26
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Re: [2_2COOL] Ebay flames
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OMG Rachael, those flames are beautiful! I am upset about wear and tear but guess I expected it. Luckily I always wash and wax my car myself and so far no signs of flaking, looks like the day I got them. I will keep a close watch on it. Thanks for all your advise. Mickey
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2005 ELECTRIC BLUE CLASSIC
Being happy doesn't mean that everything is perfect.
It means that you have decided to look beyond the imperfections
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Posts: 884 | From: Gilbert, Arizona
| Registered: Apr 24, 2007, 8:45 AM
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Dsmith
Cruiser Fan
Posted: Mar 10, 2008, 12:20 PM
Post #23 of 26
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Re: [2_2COOL] Ebay flames
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Well I'm getting a full vinyl flame job done by a place here that did lots of work for my old Boss.
Priced it out to day. getting hood and sides done.
even told them i would advertise their stuff for giving me a deal.
I'll be getting darker blue flames with silver airbrush accents.
Price was double what I'm paying until I told the guy where I used to work.LOL!
they can't do anything for 2 weeks though so that gives me time to save up some$$$.
First big car show of the year is in 2weeks so they are booked till then.
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(This post was edited by Dsmith on Mar 10, 2008, 12:23 PM)
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Posts: 31 | From: S'toon Sk Canada
| Registered: Feb 23, 2008, 2:13 PM
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Jaidnoire
Cruiser Fan
Posted: Apr 18, 2008, 8:24 AM
Post #24 of 26
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Re: [Dsmith] Ebay flames
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This is a great thread as I'm intrigued by ghost flames but certainly do not have the $$ for a paint job....(excited by DansDecals.com's prices!)
What is the best way to prep your car for vinyl graphics and (excuse my
ignorance as this is my 1st car and know nothing...) do you wax over
them when you are done with the application?
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2001 Black PT Cruiser Limited
Adopted 6/27/06 w/ 44k miles
Finally a car of my very own!!!
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Posts: 26 | From: NYC
| Registered: Jun 27, 2006, 7:34 AM
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kinky kitty
Cruiser Expert
PT Cruiser Club Member
Posted: Apr 18, 2008, 12:38 PM
Post #25 of 26
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Re: [Jaidnoire] Ebay flames
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you may want to look at purplejalopy.com also. have done a lot of work with pt owners and have a big variety of patterns.
ron
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When people see a cat's litter box, they always ask, 'Oh, have you got a cat?' Just once I want to say, 'No, it's for company!'
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Posts: 102 | From: portland,tn
| Registered: Jul 26, 2007, 5:45 AM
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