The main panel was particularly hard to complete. I broke down the decals into small groups of letterings so that I might be more successful. The biggest challenge was the experimental aircraft statement block. After many hours, I got all the decals applied.
To prep the panel, I wet sanded it with 2000 grit paper and buffed the finish as best I could. I was disappointed that I could not bring back the original gloss to the paint. I was also concerned about chipping off the decals. I found a spray can of a clear overcoat that should protect the decals and provide a good gloss to the panel. It's not perfect, I could do better on the next one, but I think its good enough. I'm thinking that when the controls and instruments are mounted, no one will notice the small imiperfections that I know are there.
