How long can laser stripe be stored

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   I have a 1973 GTS that I plan to restore. I have been gathering some parts before I get started and will need a new laser stripe. I have seen a couple of places to buy a new one but don't know how long it will last if I buy now while they are still available. Does anyone have experience in storing one of these or have any idea how long one can sit on the shelf and still be good to use. It will probably be a couple years before I am ready to install it. Thanks in advance

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mbwsr Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List New Member Joined: 27-October-2023 Location: Florida Status: Offline Points: 6	Post Options Post Reply Quote mbwsr Report Post Thanks(0) Quote Reply Topic: How long can laser stripe be stored Posted: 17-January-2026 at 2:16PM
	I have a 1973 GTS that I plan to restore. I have been gathering some parts before I get started and will need a new laser stripe. I have seen a couple of places to buy a new one but don't know how long it will last if I buy now while they are still available. Does anyone have experience in storing one of these or have any idea how long one can sit on the shelf and still be good to use. It will probably be a couple years before I am ready to install it. Thanks in advance

72 RS 351 Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Senior Member Joined: 04-September-2014 Location: Knoxville TN Status: Offline Points: 3443	Post Options Post Reply Quote 72 RS 351 Report Post Thanks(0) Quote Reply Posted: 18-January-2026 at 12:46AM
	An old one in a box would be a big concern for how it will lay out, but something actually new should be fine for a couple of years. I'd get a new one if possible and take it out of the box to unroll it. you should be able to store it with far less tight rolling than how they were sold.
	*Don* 73 Ranchero "Sport 72 front end", floor shift/console, planning EFI 7000 rpm 351 stroker 73 Ranchero GT 351C-4V &4R70W for sale later. 92 Lincoln Mark VII SE GTC, OBDII 347/4R70W

mbwsr Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List New Member Joined: 27-October-2023 Location: Florida Status: Offline Points: 6	Post Options Post Reply Quote mbwsr Report Post Thanks(0) Quote Reply Posted: 18-January-2026 at 9:19AM
	Thank you for your reply 72 RS 351, I appreciate it. That is a good idea to store it in a less tightly rolled condition, I had not thought about that. I plan to buy a new one from an aftermarket supplier and was concerned about the adhesive deteriorated or not separating from the backing paper when it comes time to use it. Thanks

72 RS 351 Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Senior Member Joined: 04-September-2014 Location: Knoxville TN Status: Offline Points: 3443	Post Options Post Reply Quote 72 RS 351 Report Post Thanks(0) Quote Reply Posted: 18-January-2026 at 9:55AM
	The OEM stripes have a good reputation for not having issues for a ton of years. But as old as these cars are, of course some have reported problems with old stripes. So, you should feel comfortable with a new set if the company is making a great product(reviews).
	*Don* 73 Ranchero "Sport 72 front end", floor shift/console, planning EFI 7000 rpm 351 stroker 73 Ranchero GT 351C-4V &4R70W for sale later. 92 Lincoln Mark VII SE GTC, OBDII 347/4R70W