3M Dinoc

[johnsonic]

So - have been doing some research around replacing my vinyl, and have got samples from BJ's & TGW. Really didn't like either of them, they just look flat and the color is off. This will happen when inkjetting a woodgrain onto transit vinyl. Also worried about color-fastness over time.

I did discover that 3M still makes dinoc for architectural uses, and had an architect buddy get me a few samples. IT LOOKS AWESOME. Really does look like wood & think I will use it when the time comes.

It's not a 100% match for the original, it looks better in my opinion. It has textured grain & a matte finish.

I do wonder if it would take a layer of clearcoat if I wanted it glossy, but think it looks fine just as matte.

Here's the link if anyone's interested: https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/company-...94857497&rt=r3

[SOLSAKS]

you are correct
digitally printed woodgrain looks terrible

no beating the old process 3m used ( uses ?)

(originally printed on a press.)

the matte finish hides any imperfections in the body
( waves, dents, etc )

I think trying to clear coat it would be a mistake,
I think it would eventually fail and make a big mess.

make sure you use their current "marine teak"
the color is almost exact as the old NOS material jeep used
but the grain is different, wish they would use the old grain pattern.

I have seen a wagoneer done using the new version of 3m's marine teak
it is the only, and the best alternative to NOS in my opinion.
( best source for 3M's current marine teak is metro restyling, they sell on eBay )

and any NOS is going to be old
and vinyl does have a shelf life.

good luck

dave in NC