Do I need to sand the tyre sidewall prior to application?

Do I need to sand the tyre sidewall prior to application?

Sanding the tyre sidewall prior to applying raised rubber lettering is recommended, but it is not essential. Some customers have had success simply cleaning and gluing the decals onto the tyre wall. However, for the best results, we recommend sanding the tyre sidewall to create a flat, clean surface that will create a stronger bond between the tyre and the lettering.

It is important to note that you should not sand off the DOT code, as this is a legal requirement and is necessary for identifying the tyre. The DOT code is usually located on the sidewall of the tyre and includes information such as the tyre size, manufacturer, and production date.

To prepare the tyre sidewall for raised rubber lettering, use a sanding tool such as a Dremel with a flap disc attachment or a grinder with a flap disc attachment. Roughen the surface of the tyre sidewall where the lettering will be applied, taking care to only remove the letters and create a light key on the tyre wall, do not go deep into the tyre wall as this can damage the tyre. If you are not comfortable using a grinder, or Dremel Tool you can use 120grit sandpaper and do this process by hand to roughen the tyre sidewall. It is important to follow these steps carefully to ensure the best possible results when applying raised rubber lettering.