Sprinter van graphics wrap by the vehicle wrap experts at Iconography. We are proud to have designed and installed these graphics on a Sprinter Van for The DHC, a custom audio/video integration provider located in Santa Monica, CA
A full wrap on a Sprinter van requires a special material that is more conformable than the standard vehicle wrap materials. This is because the Sprinter van has deep grooves along the sides of the van that have very little surface area for the material to adhere to. For this reason, at Iconography Studios, we only use 3M’s IJ380 material with matching 8580 overlaminate when we do a full wrap on a Sprinter van that requires wrapping into these grooves. Yes, it costs a little bit more, but other materials will tend to bubble or lift along these grooves.
If you don’t want to use the IJ380 material, one option is to cut out the material that would fit in the grooves. This can work with some designs, but not with others because the paint of the van will be visible in the grooves. So, with a design that has a primarily white background, this can work out on a white van. Another thing to consider about opting for the cut out is that the material won’t wear as well due to the exposed edges of the material.
Sprinter Van Graphic Wrap Requirements
Sprinter van graphic wraps require specialized, high-stretch materials like 3M IJ380 or IJ480 with matching laminate to properly adhere to the vehicle’s deep body channels, preventing bubbling and peeling. Proper installation necessitates expert handling of these contoured areas, often requiring specialized post-heat treatment. Pre-installation cleaning is critical, ensuring the surface is free of wax, debris, and recent paint (must cure for 30 days).
Key Requirements for Sprinter Van Wraps:
- Material Selection: Use advanced cast vinyl engineered for deep channels/contours (e.g., 3M IJ380CV3 or 3M IJ480). Standard vinyl will fail in the deep grooves of Sprinter vans.
- Surface Preparation: Vehicles must be cleaned thoroughly, removing all wax, grease, and silicone-based products (like Armor All) to ensure proper adhesion. Paint Condition: any, rust, dents, or paint damage must be repaired, as the vinyl will not stick well to damaged areas.
- Decontamination: Remove all wax, silicone, and ceramic coatings. Use a professional-grade cleaner or isopropyl alcohol solution to ensure maximum adhesion.
- Curing Time: New paint requires at least 30 days to cure before wrapping.
- Deep Contours: The installer must be experienced with deep-channel wrapping to avoid lifting.
- Professional installation is highly recommended to manage the complexities of the Sprinter’s body lines. Installers must use a heat gun to “set” the vinyl’s memory in deep recesses, typically reaching temperatures between 180°F and 200°F (depending on material specs).
- Accessories: Remove or work around existing plastic trim, moldings, and roof racks.
- Windows: Perforated vinyl is used for rear/side windows, but driver/passenger windows cannot be wrapped due to regulations.
Sprinter Van Graphic Design & Coverage:
- Full vs. Partial: Full wraps offer maximum impact, while partial wraps can leverage the van’s original color to reduce costs.
- Channel Strategy: Designs should account for deep grooves, either by covering them (requiring high-stretch material) or avoiding them.
Sprinter Van Post-Wrap Care:
- Cleaning: Use mild soap, water, and soft cloths.
- Pressure Washing: Use caution; keep the nozzle at least one foot away and use a wide spray setting to avoid lifting edges.
- Protection: Regular cleaning of road salt and pollutants is necessary, especially during winter.
Not sure which material is the best solution for your Sprinter Van wrap? Give the experts at Iconography a call today to learn more at 562-424-4353.
