Applying clear, decals... over Testors Custom Lacquer System?

[crowe-t]

I intend to paint a car with Testors Model Master Custom Lacquer System using Testors Ultra Gloss Clearcoat.  I will also be applying decals and will spray the Testors Ultra Gloss Clearcoat over to protect them.  I tested it and its OK over the decals.

Should I spray on some clear over the base color before applying the decals and then spray some more clear over the decals?

Or, will the decals be OK applied to the (un-cleared) base color?

BTW, I'll be decanting and using an airbrush.

 

 

Edited December 31, 2015 by crowe-t

[Ace-Garageguy]

  On 12/31/2015 at 3:49 PM, crowe-t said:

I intend to paint a car with Testors Model Master Custom Lacquer System using Testors Ultra Gloss Clearcoat.  I will also be applying decals and will spray the Testors Ultra Gloss Clearcoat over to protect them.  I tested it and its OK over the decals.

Should I spray on some clear over the base color before applying the decals and then spray some more clear over the decals?

Or, will the decals be OK applied to the (un-cleared) base color?

BTW, I'll be decanting and using an airbrush.

If the base color is a metallic, I'd personally shoot clear over it before applying the decals. Some metallic colors are delicate and very unforgiving of handling prior to clear-coating, and MAY show disturbances in the way light reflects from the flakes in the vicinity of the decals. 

The solid-color basecoats are generally less susceptible to damage before clearing, but be sure your fingers are clean and that nothing can possibly scratch the surface during decal application.

I have inadvertently sealed in fingerprints and scratches with clear in the past (particularly visible on lighter colors) and the only solution is to rework the entire panel...or the whole model.

[Snake45]

One more thing, don't use any decal setting solution that contains alcohol (such as Solvaset) over the Testor Lacquer system, as it will damage or remove it. Use ONLY vinegar-based decal sets, such as Testors own.

[Mike_G]

  On 12/31/2015 at 6:23 PM, Snake45 said:

One more thing, don't use any decal setting solution that contains alcohol (such as Solvaset) over the Testor Lacquer system, as it will damage or remove it. Use ONLY vinegar-based decal sets, such as Testors own.

Good info!