Stabilizing a peeling original label

[hamman88]

I picked up this beaut for $160 at auction. Is in real good shape and even appears to have been running in the not too distant past. Water jacket does seem to be leaking into a cylinder though..

It does have the original labels on it. However, almost as soon as I got it the environmental changes have made the label start to peel. Any recommendations on reattaching the fraying edges and stabilizing the whole thing?

[stanley]

When they were still in business,Reprotint outboard paints sold a spray lacquer just for that purpose.I bought a can and used it on several decals like the ones you described and it worked great.I think any clear matte lacquer spray would work.Mask around the decal and spray a light mist coat first then follow up.Do a test first of course.

[Tubs]

Your decal is a waterslide replacement for the “Transfer” that
was used originally. Waterslide decals have gone out of favor.
A vinyl replacement may be available.
Tubs

A "Boathouse Repair" is one thats done without having tools or the skills to do it properly.

[hamman88]

Oh, so its not even original? That’s good to know, I was fretting keeping it together.

[Tubs]

The original transfers are slightly thicker and were applied
with a stronger adhesive. This is a example of an original transfer.
They don’t flake off like a waterslide decal. There was some error
in the preparation of the surface or in the application of your decal
that’s causing it to fail.
Tubs

A "Boathouse Repair" is one thats done without having tools or the skills to do it properly.

[joecb]

Ok guys, at great risk of crucifixion,…I think that the OP’s decals are originals and that all the old time decals were waterslide decals. Some may have been thicker than others but all water slide back in the day. As for preservation of the old decals, I would strongly caution about using lacquer based paint. The solvents in lacquer will attack the decal, instead use a clear enamel which is available in spray cans. Both Rustolium and Dupli-color make clear enamels, Duplicolor even makes a clear ceramic engine enamel that is very good.

As for Reprotint, to the best of my knowledge they only delt in enamels , no lacquer paints…AND their paint is still available under new management as http://www.vintageoutboardpaint.com

Joe B

[stanley]

Here’s my old can.Definitely lacquer and definitely for water slide decals.

• This reply was modified 3 years ago by stanley.

[Tubs]

With the best of intentions,waterslide decals appeared
sometime after WW-II. They replaced the transfers that
were applied to many early outboard motors. These are
the instructions for applying a transfer to a gas tank from
a 1930’s Johnson repair manual.
Tubs

A "Boathouse Repair" is one thats done without having tools or the skills to do it properly.

[joecb]

Thanks Tubs, much appreciate the info, I learned something new.

Joe B

[Author]

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