The New And Improved Unofficial R65 Forum V2

Technical Discussion => BMW Technical Q&A, Primarily R65 => Topic started by: clonmore1 on August 07, 2012, 01:30:40 PM

Title: Renovating Switch Gear
Post by: clonmore1 on August 07, 2012, 01:30:40 PM

Hi All,

My switch gear is okay overall, but the graphics (?) on the units are worn to the point where you could not read them in normal use.

Anyone got any ideas on how I can get them re-painted please?

Thanks

Title: Re: Renovating Switch Gear
Post by: tvrla on August 07, 2012, 03:20:01 PM

I can't imagine trying to read them while riding, so it's just an aesthetics thing to me. It's important to know all the controls by feel - no need to look when hitting the turn signal or horn button. Leaves more attention units for the road.

That said, I don't know how you would repaint the labels since it's not like earlier models with raised lettering. I'm curious what turns up on this one.

Title: Re: Renovating Switch Gear
Post by: Bob_Roller on August 07, 2012, 03:40:41 PM

I've used a label maker from work to make up new lettering .

The smallest label tape is .250 inches wide, about 6 mm .

You can have multiple lines on the tape, so it resizes the dimension of the lettering, so you can get the size you need .

The tape I used, was clear with white lettering .

Other method I've seen used, is small letter decals, I guess it's used with computers, they come on small squares just a bit larger than the letters .

You get a sheet with 10-20 of each letter and numbers .

Title: Re: Renovating Switch Gear
Post by: Justin B. on August 07, 2012, 09:03:11 PM

I suppose you could make waterslide decals then overcoat with some matte clear spray...

Title: Re: Renovating Switch Gear
Post by: clonmore1 on August 08, 2012, 02:05:35 PM

Thanks Guys,

Appreciate your feedback, I know it's not that important, but I want the bike to "look" right as well as work right.

Keep the ideas coming please... :)

Title: Re: Renovating Switch Gear
Post by: wa1udg on August 09, 2012, 10:49:35 AM

"Dry transfers" are available at hobby shops.  A coat of "dullcoat" will protect them and make them look good.  

Title: Re: Renovating Switch Gear
Post by: clonmore1 on August 13, 2012, 02:38:27 PM

Thanks,

I'm going to try the "Dry Transfer" route, found somebody who can sell dry rub off decal paper.

Here's the link: http://www.craftycomputerpaper.co.uk/.Dry-Rub-Off-Decal-Paper_159.htm

Thanks again everybody :)

Title: Re: Renovating Switch Gear
Post by: tvrla on November 09, 2012, 10:40:33 PM

How'd this work out? Happy with the results?

I want to replace the indicator lights lettering/labels on plastic pods for other airheads. I think something like this might be exactly what's needed.