My bodyman asked me the other day if the black decal that surrounds the side windows, the 'B' pillar, and the rear cargo area on the wagon, is still available from the factory or if a die-cut aftermarket kit is offered. He's restoring a customer's car and says that it would be easier (and more authentic) if he could get this. I didn't know what to tell him. Anyone know?

B

I gave up on tape years ago. The problem is not the new item, the problem is the buckled, split old stuff on the car. I always hate trying to sand it down flat. it's so easy to damage the rest of the paint, even if you mask, and the old stuff gums up any kind of abrasive so quickly.

Instead, I refinish. I start with one of Rust-O-Leum's new textured finishes. Light texture for lightly damaged anti-glare panels, heavier stuff for the really bad ones. Once it dries, I simply top coat it with either flat or satin paint. Works great, looks great.

Do you coat right over the tape that's already on the car, or try and remove the old stuff?

B

I carefully take down any really high spots where the old applique has puckered. Then I clean thoroughly and go right over it.

I believe the sedan tape is also still available from Tasca/Volvo. Either way, you can also look through the 3M product line as all striping/decals/tape/stickers, etc. etc., ever put on a Volvo as far back as a 140 anyway, was a 3M product as far as I know.

I think this is what your referring to:

http://www.volvogue.com/Volvogue_Shop.php?view=productListPage&category=12

This is the only place I have ever seen it available.

Travis

That's the item! Wow! Talk about an obscure website...

B

I cheated a little on this one as I found some heavy duty grained tape that was a nearly exact copy of the black tape from the factory. I found it at Cabela's, the photo on the package was a stone guard for the lower side of a pick up truck. they had black and 'camo' colors, I chose black. It was around $8 a roll and had to be cut to width, but that's the side that I hid under the scrapers. years later , it still looks great

Another source - happened to find this while poking around tonight.

Link: http://www.oemparts.us.com/parts/1990/VOLVO/240/DL/?siteid=215374&vehicleid=1287042&diagram=9703901

Price is certainly right, but I didn't see anything for the wagon past the "C" pillar and into the cargo area.

DW