Care & Maintenance

Magnetic Numbers/Material

Our magnetic race numbers are designed for motorsports use and provide excellent holding power on steel body panels. Proper care will help protect your vehicle and keep your magnetic numbers performing at their best event after event.

Before Installation

1. Clean the Vehicle

A clean surface provides the strongest hold and helps prevent scratches.

  • Wash the application area with mild soap and water.
  • Wipe dry with a clean microfiber towel.
  • Make sure the surface is completely dry before installing the magnet.

2. Clean the Magnet

Dirt or debris trapped behind the magnet can scratch your paint.

  • Wash the back of the magnet with mild soap and water.
  • Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth.
  • Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
  • Never use harsh chemicals or solvents.

3. Check the Surface

Magnetic race numbers only work on steel body panels.

Compatible surfaces:

  • Steel doors
  • Steel fenders
  • Steel quarter panels

Not compatible with:

  • Aluminum
  • Fiberglass
  • Plastic
  • Carbon fiber or composite panels

Applying the Magnet

4. Align and Position

Do not slap the magnet onto the vehicle.

  • Position the magnet carefully.
  • Start with one edge touching the panel.
  • Keep the magnet flat and aligned.

5. Roll It On

Apply the magnet gradually to eliminate trapped air.

  • Slowly roll the magnet across the panel.
  • Use your hand or a soft squeegee.
  • Smooth out any air pockets as you go.
  • Ensure full contact across the entire magnet.

6. Check the Edges

Inspect all edges before driving.

  • Press firmly around the entire perimeter.
  • Make sure every edge is completely adhered.
  • This helps prevent lifting at higher speeds.

After Each Use

7. Remove Daily

Remove magnetic numbers after each day of use.

  • Lift one corner and peel slowly.
  • Daily removal helps prevent moisture buildup.
  • Removing magnets regularly also helps protect your paint.

8. Clean Again

Before storing:

  • Wash both the vehicle and the magnet.
  • Remove any dirt or debris.
  • Dry both surfaces completely.

9. Inspect

Before storing or reusing:

  • Check for tears, cracks, or bent corners.
  • Remove any debris stuck to the magnet.
  • Replace the magnet if it becomes damaged.

Storage

10. Store Flat

Proper storage helps your magnetic numbers last for years.

  • Store flat whenever possible.
  • Place magnets on a metal surface (toolbox, filing cabinet, refrigerator, etc.) or between sheets of clean cardboard.
  • Separate multiple magnets with their original backing paper or cardboard.
  • Store indoors away from direct sunlight.

Avoid

  • Rolling magnets tightly
  • Folding or creasing
  • Storing in extreme heat
  • Placing magnets on dirty or wet surfaces

Temperature Tips

For best performance:

  • Install magnets when temperatures are above 60°F (16°C).
  • In cold weather, magnets may become stiff.
  • Warm them slightly indoors before installation if needed.
  • Remove magnets slowly during cold conditions.

Important

Magnetic race numbers are designed for temporary motorsports use only.

  • Remove magnets after each day of use.
  • They are not intended for permanent installation.
  • Remove magnets before extended highway driving or public road travel.
  • Inspect magnets regularly and discontinue use if damaged.

Low-tack numbers/material

Our low-tack reusable race numbers are designed for temporary motorsports use and can be removed and reapplied many times when properly cared for. They are ideal for autocross, track days, HPDE, rallycross, and other motorsports events.

Before Installation

1. Prepare the Surface

A clean surface is essential for proper adhesion and easy removal.

  • Wash the application area with mild soap and water.
  • Dry the surface completely.
  • Wipe the area with isopropyl alcohol before applying the numbers.

Do NOT use:

  • Wax
  • Polish
  • Detail sprays
  • Glass cleaner

These products can reduce adhesion.

Applying the Numbers

2. Install the Numbers

For best results, install in a clean, dry environment with temperatures above 60°F (16°C).

  1. Peel the number from the backing paper.
  2. Position it on the vehicle.
  3. Press firmly from the center outward using your hand or a soft squeegee.
  4. Ensure all edges are fully adhered.

Removing the Numbers

3. Remove Carefully

Proper removal helps extend the life of your reusable numbers.

  1. Lift one corner gently using your fingernail.
  2. Slowly peel the vinyl back at a low angle.
  3. If the vinyl feels cold or stiff, warm it slightly with a hair dryer on low heat before removing.

Cleaning

Clean your numbers after each use to maximize their lifespan.

Recommended

  • Wash with mild soap and water.
  • Use a microfiber towel or soft cloth.
  • Rinse thoroughly.
  • Allow the numbers to dry completely before storing.

Never Use

  • Gasoline
  • Brake cleaner
  • Acetone
  • Lacquer thinner
  • Strong solvents

These chemicals can permanently damage the vinyl and adhesive.

Storage

Proper storage keeps your race numbers flat, clean, and ready for the next event.

  • Store flat whenever possible.
  • Place the numbers back on their original backing paper after use.
  • Store in a cool, dry location.
  • Keep indoors and out of direct sunlight.
  • Avoid folding or rolling the numbers.
  • Do not place heavy objects on top.

Permanent Vinyl/Material

Before You Begin

For the best results:

  • Install indoors whenever possible.
  • Ensure the vehicle surface is clean, dry, and cool.
  • Install between 60–80°F (16–27°C).
  • Avoid installing in direct sunlight.

Tools You'll Need

  • Painter’s tape (for the hinge method)
  • Vinyl squeegee (felt edge recommended)
  • Microfiber towel
  • 70–90% isopropyl alcohol
  • Spray bottle (optional)
  • Hobby knife (optional)

Step 1 – Clean the Surface

Proper surface preparation is critical for long-term adhesion.

  1. Wash the application area with mild soap and water.
  2. Dry the surface completely.
  3. Wipe the area with 70–90% isopropyl alcohol.
  4. Remove any wax, polish, silicone, or contaminants.

Do NOT use:

  • Glass cleaner
  • Detail spray

These products can leave residue that reduces adhesion.

Step 2 – Position the Graphic

Before removing the backing paper:

  1. Leave the backing paper attached.
  2. Position the graphic where it will be installed.
  3. Measure from body lines or reference points to ensure it is level.
  4. Secure the graphic with small pieces of painter’s tape.

Take your time—proper alignment makes installation much easier.

Step 3 – Create the Hinge

Use the hinge method to keep the graphic aligned during installation.

  • Place one long strip of painter’s tape vertically through the center of the graphic.
  • This tape acts as a hinge, allowing you to install one side at a time while maintaining alignment.

Step 4 – Peel One Side

  1. Fold one side of the graphic away from the vehicle.
  2. Peel the backing paper away from the exposed side.
  3. Trim the removed backing paper near the hinge using a hobby knife.

Important: Cut only the backing paper. Do not cut the vinyl.

Step 5 – Apply the Vinyl

Beginning at the center hinge:

  • Work from the center outward.
  • Use overlapping squeegee strokes.
  • Apply firm, even pressure.
  • Push air toward the outside edges as you work.

After completing one side, repeat the same process on the opposite side.

Step 6 – Remove the Transfer Tape

After the vinyl has been applied:

  1. Wait approximately 2–5 minutes.
  2. Slowly peel the transfer tape back against itself at about a 180° angle.

If the vinyl starts to lift.

  • Lay the transfer tape back down.
  • Squeegee the area again with firm pressure.
  • Peel the transfer tape away more slowly.

Step 7 – Final Press

Once the transfer tape has been removed:

  • Go over the entire graphic with the squeegee one final time.
  • Pay special attention to:
    • All edges
    • Sharp corners
    • Small lettering and fine details

This final pass helps ensure maximum adhesion.

After Installation

For the best long-term results:

  • Do not wash the vehicle for 48 hours.
  • Avoid pressure washing around the edges for several days.
  • Hand washing is recommended.
  • If using a pressure washer, keep the nozzle at least 12 inches away and avoid spraying directly at the edges of the vinyl.

Installation Tips

  • Work slowly—don’t rush the installation.
  • Double-check alignment before removing the backing paper.
  • Keep your work area clean and dust-free.
  • If a bubble appears, gently work it toward the nearest edge with your squeegee.
  • Install in moderate temperatures whenever possible.
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