How VMS Mastered the Removal of Stubborn Vinyl While Safeguarding Vehicle Integrity for MMT Ambulance to Create a Stunning New Look
When VMS took on the task of replacing the fleet graphics for MMT Ambulance, a world-class transport partner of choice for many large, premier health systems, we anticipated a straightforward process: remove the old vehicle graphics and apply a new, vibrant wrap. However, the project quickly revealed an unexpected challenge. The existing graphics were made from diamond-grade reflective vinyl, a material known for its durability, but also for its difficulty to remove. We needed to remove the old graphics without damaging the vehicle’s surface to allow for the seamless application of the new branding. Yet, our installers found that the old vinyl left behind a stubborn, sticky residue, turning what seemed like a routine job into a complex task that required both specialized tools and the skilled hands of our certified installers.
Faced with this challenge, our experienced PDAA-Certified Installation Crew quickly adapted to the situation. Leveraging their expertise in custom vehicle graphics, they approached the task with meticulous care, ensuring the complete removal of the old, stubborn adhesive while preserving the integrity of MMT Ambulance's fleet. Our priority was not only to remove the old graphics but also to protect the vehicle’s paint during the process—an essential step since improper removal techniques can cause paint damage.
The team spent over 12 hours removing the old graphics, using specialized tools and solutions such as a vinyl zapper, chisel, hammer, scrapers, 3M adhesive remover, and Xylene, a specialized solvent designed for graphics removal. These methods were carefully applied to prevent any damage to the vehicle’s surface, ensuring the paint remained intact and ready for the new graphics. This meticulous approach guaranteed that the vehicles were not only free from the old adhesive but also undamaged and ready for the new branding.
For the rebranding effort, VMS recommended and used Arlon DPF 2400 fleet-grade reflective film, which was printed with MMT Ambulance's blue and white chevron design and then finished with a clear overlaminate. This material was selected not only for its superior durability—up to seven years—but also for its ease of removal compared to the previously installed diamond-grade vinyl. This choice ensured a high-quality visual result while simplifying future maintenance and replacements.
The result was a successful rebranding of MMT Ambulance’s fleet with new, vibrant graphics that met their aesthetic and functional needs. The careful removal of the old graphics and the application of the new ones preserved the integrity of the ambulances, allowing them to get back on the road quickly. VMS's use of high-quality materials and the expertise of their PDAA-certified installers ensured a flawless finish that would last for years. Additionally, by selecting a more manageable vinyl material, MMT Ambulance will face fewer challenges in future graphic removals and replacements, saving time and resources in the long run.
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