Chrome Delete Installation

Vehicle Specific Installation Videos:

Chrome delete installation is not always easy and requires some patience. Some of our car specific videos can be found on our YouTube channel by searching “Chrome Delete”.

What You Need to Get Started

Tools Included With Order:

  • Soft felt edge squeegee

  • Cutting blade

  • Microfiber Towel

Tools Recommended For Best Results:

  • Heat gun (or a hair dryer)

  • Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) – 70% to 90%

  • Distilled water (if using 99% IPA)

  • You don’t have to use all the extra tools to install the kit, but just a heads-up — your results might not come out as clean. We still highly recommend using a heat gun, hair dryer, or heat lamp to help the vinyl stick better and last longer.

 

Set Up Your Work Area

  • Avoid wind, dirt, or dust while working.

  • Work inside a garage or under a covered space.

  • Keep the temperature between 65°F–75°F (18°C–24°C). This is considered a mild or comfortable temperature.


 

Step 1: Wash the Car (Especially the Chrome Parts)

  • Wash off all dirt, wax, or car soap from the chrome area.

  • Don’t use wax or shine sprays — they stop the vinyl from sticking.

  • Dry the car completely before moving to the next step.


 

Step 2: Clean with Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA)

  1. Use 70%–90% IPA in a spray bottle.

  2. If using 99% IPA, mix it with distilled water:
    Mix 8.4 oz alcohol + 3.6 oz distilled water in a 12 oz bottle.

  3. Spray the alcohol mix on the chrome or on a clean towel.

  4. Wipe the surface in overlapping strokes, flip the towel often to avoid

  5. Clean edges, curves, and under rubber trims too.

  6. Let everything dry before installing the vinyl.


Universal Chrome Delete Installation Instructions:

Every chrome delete installation is different, with that in mind the approach for each panel may be different.

  • Normally if the panel you are working on is flat with little to no curves, like a side window, you can start installing the film from one edge and slowly working your way to the other end. (See Image For Reference)
  • If the panel you are working on has a design or deep curves then normally we recommend you start by aligning the film to that design and slowly tacking it down. (See Image For Reference)                              
  • Use the squeegee (felt edge) to press from the center outward (pushing out air) in overlapping passes. Work slowly, especially on curves.
  • Move in small increments; avoid stretching too aggressively.
  • In corners or edges where the wrap must turn or fold, use heat to soften and carefully press using the felt squeegee.
  • Pull slightly (if allowed) and “massage” the material into shape, then press down.
  • Always trim off extra material at the very end of the install. If you cut it too early and then apply heat, the film will shrink and the chrome can show through at the edges.
  • To trim off excess material it is important to take your time. If the panel has a gap to trim off the material you may use that to make trimming easier. However, if the panel doesn't have a gap then just gently score the vinyl surface with a light pass of the blade (do not cut through to the paint or chrome).
  • Bend and peel — the film will “snap” cleanly along the score line.
  • Requires practice, but avoids running a blade along paint.
  • It is important to always take your time when installing any chrome delete.


Final Step: Post-Heating the Vinyl

This step is very important. Skipping this step is one of the main causes of vinyl failure on chrome deletes.

Tools Needed For Best Post-Heat Results:

  • Heat gun with digital or controlled temperature settings

  • Infrared thermometer or heat gun with temperature readout (highly recommended)

  • Microfiber or heat-resistant gloves (for light pressure during heating)

  • Squeegee or edge tool

  • Optional: Edge Sealer for high-risk edge areas

➤ What to Do:

  • Focus on edges, corners, and curves.

  • Heat each section for 5–10 seconds using:

    • 4–6 inches distance

    • Side-to-side motion

How to Tell If It's Hot Enough:

  • The vinyl will go from dull → slightly shiny.

  • Gently touch with a glove — if you can keep your finger on it for 2 seconds, it’s just right.

  • Don’t overheat it! If it bubbles or smells, it’s too hot.


 

After the Install — Very Important!

-For Best Results let the film cure for at least 24 hours and do not wash the car for 3-5 days — if not enough time to cure is given your results might not come out as clean.

  1. Post-Install Walkthrough + Recheck in 24 Hours
  • After install, go over all edges and high-stretch areas one more time:

    • Reheat lightly (if cooled down)

    • Press with a gloved hand or squeegee

2. Watch Environmental Conditions

  • Avoid:

    • Parking in direct sun immediately after install

    • Driving in extreme cold or rain

  • Ideal curing temp: 70°F–85°F, with low humidity

  • If it’s cold: Wrap indoors and let the car stay overnight in a climate-controlled area.

Do these steps to ensure that the film cures properly in order to prevent the vinyl from lifting over time.


 

Want to Remove the Vinyl Later?

No problem! Here's how:

  1. Heat it first.

    • Use a heat gun to warm up small parts of the vinyl.

  2. Peel slowly.

    • Start at a corner and pull gently at an angle (not straight up).

  3. Clean leftover glue.

    • Use adhesive remover (like Goo Gone) and a microfiber towel.

  4. Final wipe.

    • Clean the area with IPA to remove any residue.


You Did It!

If you followed all the steps — nice job!
Your chrome delete should look clean, smooth, and last a long time. If you ever need help, feel free to reach out to our team.


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