Elephant Body-Armour Care & Instruction Guide

1. Before You Apply: Surface Preparation

Proper preparation is essential for a secure hold and to protect your vehicle.

• Clean & Dry: Ensure both the Elephant Body-Armour panels and the vehicle's metal surface are perfectly clean and dry. Dirt or moisture will weaken adhesion.
• Wax the Surface: For best results, apply a coat of wax or polish to the clean, painted metal surface. This improves adhesion and protects the paint. Try not to use ceramic polishes.
• Check Surface Compatibility:
  • Avoid New Paint: Do not apply panels to recently repainted surfaces.
  • Plastic Surfaces: Magnetic panels will not adhere to plastic. For plastic fuel filler covers, you can cover the entire surrounding panel or place a protective plastic cover. Consult an Elephant-approved installer for advice.
  • Body Filler: Panels may not adhere securely to surfaces repaired with body putty or filler. We recommend testing adhesion on your specific vehicle before purchase.

2. How to Apply Correctly

• Positioning: For the strongest hold, apply panels to the designated vehicle panels. The panels are pre-cut to avoid most sharp contours and mouldings. Certain vehicles require multiple Elephant Body-Armour panels.
• Eliminate Air Pockets: Apply the panel evenly and press firmly across its entire surface to push out all air pockets.
• Repositioning: If you need to adjust the panel's position, lift it completely off the vehicle and realign. Do not slide or drag it, as this can stretch and damage the material.

3. Cleaning & Maintenance

Regular cleaning prevents damage from trapped dirt and moisture.

• Routine Cleaning: Periodically remove the panels.
• Wash both the panels and the vehicle surface with a mild detergent.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
• Dry both completely with a microfiber cloth before reattaching the panels.

4. Proper Storage

Correct storage preserves the life and flexibility of your panels.

• Store at Room Temperature: Panels are more pliable and easier to handle when warm.
• Store Flat or Rolled: Lay panels flat on a smooth surface or roll them loosely.
• What to Avoid: Never fold the panels or place them on sharp objects, as this can cause permanent creases or tears.
• Use Original Packaging: The shipping box or a purpose-made storage bag is ideal for safe storage.

5. Tips for Optimal Performance & Longevity

• Temperature Range: Use your panels in ambient temperatures between 10°C and 40°C.
• Hot Weather Warning: In very hot conditions, the rubber can bond to the paint. To prevent damage upon removal, avoid leaving panels on for extended periods during heatwaves.
• Regular Inspection: Inspect the panels every few days during a trip to check for any issues.
• Re-seat Periodically: For optimal performance, remove, clean, and reinstall the panels periodically.
• Rain: Should the vehicle be exposed to rain, each panel should be removed, dried and reapplied. Please ensure that all moisture is removed prior to re-applying.