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Surface Preparation
IMPORTANT NOTICE!!!
The Fast-Trax system housing is secured to the vehicle using 3M™ VHB™ double-
sided tape. This tape offers superior bond strength that allows the Fast-Trax™ 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 Fast-Trax™
system includes the 3M™ recommended preparation solution. DO NOT USE ANY OTHER
SOLUTIONS TO PREPARE THE MOUNTING SURFACE! By following these procedures,
your Fast-Trax™ 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 Fast-Trax
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 Fast-Trax 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 Fast-Trax housing.
7. Carefully pull the protective backing tabs out from under the Fast-Trax housing. Make sure
that the housing’s position is not disturbed during this process.
Area surrounding the
tape to be primed
1.5“
1.5“