Application of Decals - Speedometer

[jwmckenzie]

I am trying to apply decals to my Waltham Speedometer. I can't seem to get them to stick to the odometer wheels. They are the decals not vinyl stickers. Took the whole assembly apart cleaned and re-lubed the internals.

Before application of first set I cleaned the wheels with Lacquer thinner, second round with Naphtha. Decals flake off when I try to trim them.

Pic from first round

So any tricks? Suggestions.

 

[gdmn852]

Are they water type decals or adhesive backed decals? I put some on a 49 Buick that had adhesive backing, they recommend a light coat of white primer.

 

[jwmckenzie]

Are they water type decals or adhesive backed decals? I put some on a 49 Buick that had adhesive backing, they recommend a light coat of white primer.

Water type

 

[BButturff]

Astra-Werke has a YouTube video on applying speedometer decals. Take a look, see if it helps.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAeueimM1cU

 

[katy]

Try washing w/detergent, maybe there's petroleum residue from the solvents causing the "no stick".

 

[jwmckenzie]

Astra-Werke has a YouTube video on applying speedometer decals. Take a look, see if it helps.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAeueimM1cU

Yep, he is the guy that inspired me to go into my Waltham speedo. In the end he procured Stickers that were not water type. I may have to go that way.

Thanks.

Jon.

 

[Dick M]

20+ years ago I put new odometer numbers, like the ones in your photo, on my speedometer. I used a stick of glue that looks like a lipstick tube and glued the numbers onto the reel. I separated the columns and glued each column one at a time. The odometer numbers are still on the speedometer without issue.

 

[jwmckenzie]

I separated the columns and glued each column one at a time.

I think this may be where I end up. That way no trimming, or minimal.

Thanks for the glue tip.