PortVisor™ Re-Taping Instructions
Remove PortVisor™ from Boat
Starting at one end of the tape, gradually pull the Visor off. If necessary, use something to pry it, being careful not to gouge the paint or gelcoat. The PortVisor is very strong and can easily withstand being twisted and pulled.
Prepare PortVisor™
Remove old VHB tape from Visor
Slowly pull the tape at a low angle,away from the taped area. This will keep it from breaking into pieces and minimize residue. It will also save lots of frustration on your part.
There will probably be sticky residue left on the Visor. To remove it, drag a piece of the old tape over the surface.This causes the residue to clump up. Then, using another piece of tape, dab the residue repeatedly to pull off the mini-clumps. Once you’ve gotten it as clean as possible, wipe firmly using a rag soaked with isopropyl alcohol (IPA).Repeat with clean sections of rag until all residue is gone. Let dry. NOTE: This is the most tedious step and may require internal application of the other kind of alcohol.
Add new 3M VHB Tape to PortVisor™
Wipe with IPA and let dry, being careful not to touch the cleaned Visor surface.Hold the new tape by the sides only and then carefully place it on the PortVisor flange. Press it down, pushing as hard as you can. If necessary, wrap your finger with a cloth or use the bottom of a glass. This step is very important and helps the VHB tape molecules flow into the lexan molecules.
Prepare Boat Surface
For a good bond between the PortVisor™ and boat, the gel coat or painted surface must be free of wax, dirt, oils, moisture, and oxidation. “Good enough” is not good enough. Get it scrupulously clean. Remove any oxidation by lightly sanding(with ScotchBrite) the area where the visor will attach.
Clean and Dry the Surface
Clean the boat surface with a rag dampened with IPA. Do not use harsh chemicals like acetone, or thinners like mineral spirits,which leave an oily film that will alter the color of your cabin side and inhibit adhesion of the tape. Let dry completely or wipe with clean dry rag.
Attach PortVisor™
Only after the boat surface is clean and dry should you remove the red liner and affix the Visor. It is very important that you DO NOT touch either the tape surface or the boat surface you just cleaned. (Skin oil is a big contaminant.) Press and firmly rub the taped areas using a soft cloth like a clean towel or T-shirt material, pushing continuously on the visor lip, all along the tape area. It is important you apply sufficient pressure on the tape to ensure a good bond. Go ahead and lean on it. You won’t hurt the PortVisor™. You won’t hurt your boat.
► IMPORTANT NOTE: Always handle the VHB tape by the edges and never touch the sticky side.