Lacquering Tank - Decals on or off

[TKMSteve]

Your collective advice please. I have sprayed the tank and side panels, Candy Red equivalent. Really happy with the finish after 5 coats.
Now do I apply the decals first then lacquer or lacquer first then lacquer?
Sorry if a daft question.

[Nurse Julie]

Not a daft question, decals first then lacquer on top. Sounds like you are doing a great job there.

[TKMSteve]

Many thanks. just waiting now for HONDA decals from Diego then on with the next step.

[Nurse Julie]

Many thanks. just waiting now for HONDA decals from Diego then on with the next step.

Great, I hope you will post a photo when it's all done.

[philward]

Didn't know there was another member in Wigan! - which area of Wigan are you based Steve?

[4wDaz]

Another option is to apply the base coat then clear coat as normal, when dry scuff clear with 600 wet and dry, apply decal then apply another 3 coats of clear, colour sand and buff 

[TKMSteve]

4wDaz - that looks really complicated, I'm a simple sprayer. That yellow F2 tank looks awesome. I'm just looking for an OK job on mine.
I'll certainly put some pics up when I have it completed from start to finish as it has been a complete bare frame, engine in bits project over the last two years.
philward - I live in Standish. That's some list of bikes you have there. My previous bikes were Honda CD175, early 70's to commute Leeds to Harrogate, then a Yamaha RD250 mid 70's for fun. I wanted a 400/4 but I hadn't passed my test so went RD.

[philward]

I'm over in Winstanley Steve - probably passed each other several times over the years!

[TKMSteve]

Philward - If you are passing through Standish in the near future, please pop in and cast an eye over my 400/4. I'd appreciate an expert opinion on what I have done to it. WN6 0AW, number 7.      07926 995514.
I've kept a full spreadsheet of all costs so far. My son bought me the bike 2 years ago as a garage find at £400 and I have spent £2300 on it so far.

[philward]

If I'm passing through, I'll bell you Steve - no 400 expert though! Same for you, I'm at WN3 6HQ 07793750144

[DaveN]

Just keep it away from petrol for quite a few weeks after. I learnt the hard way (IK lacquer over the decals).

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Managed to save it but will coat with 2K lacquer next time the tank is empty(ish)