Sanding and Re-Decal Question

[Wiredworm]

I'm in the midst of sanding my cabinet back in readiness for repainting and applying new decals.

One question I have is that after sanding back I have a number of circles of paint which remain because the bolt heads have compressed the timber in that area meaning that the original screen printed artwork isn't removed by the sander on those points.

It's not a big deal obviously because those spots will be covered when I apply the new decals but i'm worried that the slight dimple could make applying the decal a little more tricky.

Any advice on this one? Is it worth me applying filler to those areas and then re-drilling the bolt holes once the filler has gone off and has been sanded back flush?

 

[replicas]

No worries once you apply the decal the bolt that made the impression will do so again just take care tightening the bolt and like anything else, take you time and everything will be hunky dory.
You don't really want to put any filler under the bolt as when tightened it will crack the filler. Just let the new decal cover the recess and the bolt will push it into the recess once tightened.

 

[Wiredworm]

Thanks for that replicas. Appreciate the feedback. Hopefully be in a position to get painting in the next couple of weeks once i've done the interior and some finer grades on the outside.

I presume it only needs to be mirror smooth on the sides where the decals are being fitted?

 

[replicas]

Smoother the better.
I usually finish off with a 600 grit which is even less once used.

 

[Wiredworm]

Well this has been an ongoing job for almost half a year now so I don't see the point in rushing it now. I'll make sure I go to 600 grit on the sides where the decals are going. I might cheat a little and go for a lesser grade paper on the other areas where the decals won't be going (rear, below the head and interior of the cab).