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Surface Preparation
IMPORTANT NOTICE!!!
The FastTrax™ system housing is secured to the vehicle using 3M™ VHB™ double-
sided tape. This tape offers superior bond strength that allows the FastTrax to be exposed
to inclement weather with no adhesion loss. However, the key to successful bonding lies
in proper preparation of the mounting surface. The following section will outline the
recommended procedure for mounting surface preparation. Your FastTrax system
includes the 3M™ recommended preparation solution. DO NOT USE ANY OTHER
SOLUTIONS TO PREPARE THE MOUNTING SURFACE! By following these procedures,
your FastTrax installation will produce a successful bond with lasting adhesion. The outer
surface of the vehicle must be at least 65°F before proceding!
1.
Without
removing the protective backing from the mounting tape, position the FastTrax
housing onto its mounting surface. The housing is properly positioned when it is centered on
the vehicle roof with a 1/8” space between the leading edge of the housing and the
windshield gasket.
2. Any part of the vehicle that
will be in contact with the
adhesive tape PLUS an
additional inch and a half
(1½) wide area on either
side of the tape will have to
be prepared. This area is
called the bonding surface.
Remove
the
FastTrax
housing from the vehicle.
3. The bonding surface must
be completely clean and
dry. Using a clean lint-free
cloth, clean the bonding
surface with an automotive
wax and grease remover (ex:Prepsol®). Allow to dry thoroughly.
4. Shake the “3M Keel Primer” applicator (included) well before using. Following the instructions
attached to the applicator, apply a thin uniform coating to the bonding surface using the
minimum amount that will fully coat the surface. Allow the primer to dry thoroughly. This is
usually accomplished in 5 minutes at room temperature. Be sure the primed surface remains
free from contaminants.
5. Return the housing to the vehicle and connect the strobe/halogen cables to their respective
lightheads. Remember that the cables must be connected correctly or the system will not
function properly.
6. Locate the ends of the adhesive tape strips indicated below. Peel approximately an inch of
the protective backing away from the tape. Now fold the backing so that it sticks out from
under the FastTrax housing.
Area surrounding the
tape to be primed
1.5“
1.5“
