EraserGirl

has anyone figured out how to wash a vintage schwinn WITHOUT losing the stenciling?

I just don't want to buy new decals for bikes i just want to flip

thanks

Zaphod Beeblebrox 

The decals wash off?

Not on my varsity.

EraserGirl

yeah i have had a couple of old varsities and collegiates where the white flakes off when you wash them.

Zaphod Beeblebrox 

crappy. I'll bet its something to do with UV exposure.

You might be able to protect them by using something like carnuba wax on the decals before you wash the bike...although that might just wear them off as well.

You could hit them with a rattle can spray of clear coat for longer lasting protection.

**edit**

if its a flip you could just wash around the decals using a wash cloth and try really hard not to get em wet.

lotek 

erasergirl,

use your namesake! well Mr. Clean Magic eraser that is. I've seen it do wonders on old bikes
just be gentle over the decals.

Marty

yepyep

Yeah, magic erasers are tre' cool. Great for brightening dingy cranks and brakes. They should be in every bike tool bag.

jamesl

Some of the old Schwinn decals are painted or airbrushed on, while others are applied. If the decal is all there but faded or "dusty" looking, then it's painted on -- and can be wiped off with soap and water if you're not careful. If the color is good but the letters are flaking or peeling, then it's an applied decal and you can wash the bike without hurting them.

I just try to gently wash around the painted ones and then lightly wipe on some polish. Still, when they're in that state, it's very easy to wipe them away...

EraserGirl

I am paranoid about Melamine foam, it is actually a very fine abrasive, so using it on flaking paint work is scary. I will leave it for metal.