Clean Area to be Etched with Included Alcohol Wipe
Remove the stencils from backing paper
and apply to the outsideof window glass in the
recommended locations. With fingertips, gently "pat" the stencil to remove
all air bubbles and ensure that it is in full contact with glass.
Apply Etch Cream
Don't over-do it, but be sure that the
cut-out area of the stencil (Your VIN number) is completely
covered with etching cream.
CAUTION:
MAKE SURE THAT THE ETCHING CREME DOESN'T
COME IN CONTACT WITH ANY GLASS AROUND THE EDGES OF THE STENCIL. IMMEDIATELY
WIPE IT OFF WITH PLAIN WATER IF THIS HAPPENS.
Leave Etching Cream on for 5 Minutes Then
Carefully remove and discard the stencil
and clean the etched area with plain water and
the sponge that comes in the kit and then dry with a paper towel.
Apply Warning Decals
Apply the Warning Decals on both the
driver's side and passenger's windows, in a very conspicuous place close to
the VIN Etched area. Put Decals on INSIDE of windows. Suggested Location: Near the
handles of both the driver's and passenger's door windows.
P
Complete the Insurance Certificate
Complete your insurance certificate.
Keep one copy for your records and mail the other one to your insurance agent.
Advise them that you will gladly stop by for them to "check" your VIN
Etching.
Recommended areas to be etched:
FRONT WINDSHIELD - Above factory
VIN number on the drivers side of the windshield.
SIDE WINDOWS - Near handle or
door lock on both passenger and drivers side windows.
REAR WINDOW - Directly in the
middle of the rear window or in the corner of either the driver's
side or passenger's side at the bottom of the window.
Hints for optimum etching results:
1. Avoid VIN etching in
very hot weather or direct sunlight.
2. Avoid VIN etching in temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Avoid VIN etching on wet or windy days.
4. You may paint over a VIN etched window for a higher contrast etch.
Still Not Convinced
VIN Etching is Worthwhile?
Here are Some Facts:
Insurance companies
are beginning to recognize the benefits of VIN etching and have begun offering
discounts on insurance premiums for cars that have been VIN etched.
Law Enforcement agencies fully endorse the use of VIN etching. Read this
VIN etching report
from the Honolulu Police Department.
Some states have passed laws requiring car dealerships to offer VIN etching
on every new car sold, although this is not recommended due to the very high
prices they charge ($300+).
The Florida Department of Motor Vehiclesnow offers
VIN etching during emissions inspection. And many
states REQUIRE a discount from your Insurer if
you VIN etch your vehicle's windows.
Do-It-Yourself kits require
you to make your own stencils.
This can be done with a
Regular Typewriter.
Permanently Mark
Your Drivers License Number on All of Your Metal Tools, Including
Multi-Tools and
Leatherman Tools Using the
Etch-O-Matic.
DANGER: KEEP ETCH
CREME OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN Harmful or fatal if swallowed. Skin and eye irritant. Avoid contact with
skin. For skin contact, wash thoroughly with soap and water for 5 minutes.
Wear protective gloves. Avoid eye contact. In case of eye contact, flush thoroughly
with tap water for 15 minutes. If swallowed, rinse mouth with water and drink
milk or Milk of Magnesia. Do not induce vomiting. Get prompt medical attention.
Active ingredient 20% Ammonium Bifluoride. Inert ingredients 80%.