Is it necessary to drain your tank before applying graphics?

[alligatorbling]

I just ordered some graphics for my RM from XGX, anyway, in there FAQ section they talk about applying the graphics... They say to drain the tank and let it air out for a few days. "Drain the gas and let the tank air out and dry for a day or two. We’ve seen best results when the drying time is increased to a week or more. This allows all of the gas to evaporate. " Has anyone heard of this step in applying graphics? Im just curious if anyone has skipped this step in applying graphics and had no negative side effects, because that would suck to have to just let my bike sit and dry out, id rather be riding! lol Any feedback is appreciated!

 

[Okiewan]

It'll help avoid air bubbles in the graphics.

 

[oldguy]

we usually just put them on with the tank in whatever condition the fuel level is at. They seem to hold up just fine but then with his knee braces Spider scrapes them off in a couple months anyways.
However you do it be sure the surface is clean with either alcohol or contact cleaner

 

[alligatorbling]

It'll help avoid air bubbles in the graphics.

thats the only reason i figured they would recommend that... so gas acutally seeps through the plastic in a way? fumes, chemicals, i duno, i guess its some kind of reaction there.

 

[ls1cameric]

I've always read that before but never drained the tank or even taken it off. As long as there is no gas on the outside where the graphics will be applied, you'll be fine. However if you dont clean it and there is the smallest amount of gas on the outside of the tank, they will come off a lot quicker than if it's totally clean because the patroleum will eat the vinal adheasive.

 

[Okiewan]

Gas fumes penetrate plastic tanks and will eventually bubble... my YZ was really bad about it, even with all the vent holes pre-cut into the graphics. Making sure the tank is empty (when the bike is just sitting for the week or whatever) helps.

 

[alligatorbling]

so thats what the holes in the graphics are for on some gas tank graphics! duh.... i always wondered that was for lol.... ya learn something new every day!

 

[robwbright]

I followed the instructions from Eric gorr's book:

Remove and empty tank, clean outside of tank, seal outside of tank with acetone (fingernail polish remover - $1.50 at Wal Mart for 16 oz.), let dry, apply graphics.

As I recall, Eric's book said the acetone helps seal the tank from any remaining fumes coming through while you're putting on the graphics.

They are working great thus far! Bubbles appear, but I smuch them out through the holes in the graphics and seems to be ok.