Prep for Bedliner
The instructions with the liner are quite clear that the surface must be absolutely clean and definitely 'roughed up' for the coating to stick. Failure to roughen the surface or give some 'tooth' for adherence will result in the coating peeling off or not sticking in the first place.
On our rig, the roof was already pretty rough where the clear and much of the paint had been worn away. The part just over the windshield was in the best condition with clear-coat intact.
To prep, I washed the area carefully twice and let dry. Then flaked off as much of the clear coat as I could where it was lifting away at the edges. To flake it off, I used a fingernail and (very carefully) the edge of a single-edge razor blade. Once all the clear-coat was off, I used a scotch-brite type pad to smooth and roughen the remaining surfaces that would be covered. I took my time with the roughing up - almost one day devoted just to this.
A final cleaning with alcohol and then acetone removed any extraneous debris and oils, etc.
The coating goes on pretty easily - cutting in the edges with a paintbrush (after masking off with blue painters tape, of course), and then using the supplied roller. The first coat covered most but not all; a second coat covered everything completely. Any spillage must be wiped up with acetone ASAP; once cured, the coating does not want to come off.
Also - strongly recommend wearing gloves. I didn't...and...well...the stuff sticks to everything. Everything. It took 2 days to get it off my hands.
I understand that the results may appeal to some and not to others, but I am pleased. If I ever need another coat - easy enough to do. WAY less expensive than more paint and clear-coat, and I don't have to worry about nicks and cuts from rocks, etc. I perhaps would have liked a little less gloss - but will see how it wears over time.
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John S
2008 Journey 39Z Cummins 350 ISB 6.7L
2006 Honda CR-V LX Tow
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