Introduction of Herculiner Bed Liner Kit HCL1G8

The Herculiner Bed Liner Kit HCL1G8 is a do-it-yourself solution for protecting your truck bed from wear and tear. This bed liner kit is easy to apply, providing a textured, skid-resistant surface that guards against damage from cargo and the elements. With an estimated price range of $60 to $80 and a launching date in 2004, the Herculiner Bed Liner Kit HCL1G8 has been a trusted choice for truck owners for nearly two decades.

Detailed Specifications

The Herculiner Bed Liner Kit HCL1G8 includes the following key features:

• Brush-on or roll-on application for a custom fit
• High-grade rubberized alkyd coating for maximum durability
• Textured, skid-resistant surface
• Resistant to gasoline, oil, and other chemicals
• Coverage up to 150 square feet
• Withstands temperatures from -30°F to 200°F

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

DANGER: This safety alert symbol indicates that a potential personal injury hazard is present. The symbol is usually used with a signal word (e.g., WARNING) which designates the degree or level of hazard seriousness.

• The signal word WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
• The signal word NOTICE indicates a situation which can cause damage to the product, other personal property and/or to the environment, or cause the product to operate improperly.
• The combination of the safety alert symbol and signal word is used in safety messages throughout this manual and on safety labels on this product.

 WARNING: All safety messages that follow have WARNING level hazards. Failure to comply could result in death or serious injury.

• Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Always apply this product in an open, well ventilated area. This product should not be applied in an enclosed area.
• If the product is swallowed, contact a doctor or a poison control center. Do not induce vomiting. Drink a glass of water.
• Always wear protective eyewear, rubber gloves and protective clothing when preparing the surface and when applying the product.
• Always read and comply with the safety labels on all containers. Do not remove or deface the container labels.
• Always read and comply with the solvent manufacturer’s recommendations for proper use and handling of solvents. Do not use gasoline or other highly volatile fluids for cleaning. 
• Keep out of reach of children. This product contains polyurethane and 30% xylene. For further precautionary and handling information, review the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). 

NOTE: All messages that follow have NOTICE level hazards. Failure to comply could result in property damage.

• HERCULINER bonds to skin, clothing and metal surfaces quickly and is very difficult to remove when dry. Avoid getting any residue on your skin, painted surfaces and clothing. Use xylene (Xylol) or acetone immediately to remove any residue, and then wash the area with soap and water.
• If HERCULINER is allowed to dry on hands or skin, soak in warm soapy water for 10-15 minutes, gently scrubbing affected area. Then liberally apply a skin moisturizing lotion. HERCULINER will usually come off within 2-3 days.
• Make sure to prepare the surface properly before applying the HERCULINER material. A surface that is not correctly prepared may not allow the material to adhere properly.

GENERAL INFORMATION

HERCULINER Brush-on Bed Liner is a polyurethane-based product that is designed to be easily applied to any truck bed with great results. It is important that you follow the application instructions as closely as possible. Any deviation or deletion from these application instructions may have a negative effect on the end results. Be sure to read all instructions and warnings completely before beginning. If you have any questions regarding these procedures or safety issues about HERCULINER, call our customer service line at 1-800-477-5847 between 8AM and 5PM CST.

IMPORTANT: This kit contains 1 gal (3.8 L) of HERCULINER, which is sufficient to cover one 6 ft  (1.8 m) truck bed. 8 ft (2.4 m) truck beds will require an additional quart (0.9 L) of HERCULINER.
Other items you will need to complete the job:  

• One quart (0.9 L) of xylene (Xylol), acetone or MEK solution for surface preparation only
• 2 in. (5 cm) wide masking tape
• Paint roller pan
• Rubber gloves
• Clean-up rags
• Stir stick or paint-mixing drill attachment

BED SURFACE PREPARATION

1. Remove the tailgate.
2. Clean heavy dirt and grime from the truck bed and tailgate. Sweep out large debris and use a household detergent such as TSP (trisodium phosphate) and water to thoroughly remove all dirt, including oil spots and petroleum products residue. 
   • Make sure to rinse the surface well with a clean rag and fresh water. Allow the truck bed and tailgate to dry thoroughly.
3. Remove tailgate hardware if it is in an area that you are going to coat.

4. At the same time, fill drain plugs and latch bolt holes with masking tape.

   

5. Be sure to scuff all painted surfaces where HERCULINER is going to be applied, leaving no glossy areas. This will provide a superior bond between HERCULINER and the truck bed surface. 

6. Using the scouring pad provided, scuff all paint surfaces where HERCULINER is to be applied, leaving no glossy areas.

   

   • Sanding the surface with an orbital sander or by hand is also acceptable. It is advised to use just enough sanding pressure to scuff and dull a painted or primed surface. 120 to 150 grit sandpaper is sufficient for use. Do not remove the paint or primer as it is used as an additional protective barrier and a bonding surface.
7. Blow out or wipe down the truck bed and tailgate, removing all excess sanding dust.
   • Before using any solvents, always read and comply with the solvent manufacturer’s recommendations for proper use and handling of solvents.
8. Wipe down the truck bed and tailgate with xylene (Xylol), acetone or MEK solution, and a rag (it is recommended to wear rubber gloves while working with any solvents and when applying HERCULINER).
9. Allow xylene (Xylol), acetone or MEK to dry completely (about 10 minutes).

IMPORTANT: Please be aware the can lid is very tightly sealed for safe transportation and may be difficult to open.

Detailed Description of Herculiner Bed Liner Kit HCL1G8

The Herculiner Bed Liner Kit HCL1G8 is a versatile and easy-to-use solution for protecting your truck bed. Its high-grade rubberized alkyd coating forms a tough, textured surface that resists damage from cargo and withstands extreme temperatures. The brush-on or roll-on application allows for a custom fit, ensuring comprehensive coverage and protection. Additionally, the kit's chemical resistance makes it an ideal choice for those working with gasoline, oil, and other harsh substances.

APPLYING LINER TO TRUCK BED

1. Before applying HERCULINER, be sure to wear chemical resistant gloves. HERCULINER is very difficult to remove from skin once it has dried.
2. Stir HERCULINER very well (for best results, use an electric drill motor with a paint-mixing attachment or a metal paint mixer).
3. HERCULINER may be thinned 10% with xylene (Xylol) if it thickens after opening. DO NOT USE A CHEMICAL OTHER THAN XYLENE (XYLOL) FOR THINNING.
   NOTE: For best results, STIR HERCULINER THOROUGHLY BEFORE USING AND WHILE YOU ARE WORKING. This keeps the rubber particles suspended and ensures even application. Apply a light first coat. This acts as a “primer” for your second coat. Roll as much on the truck bed surface as possible.
4. Start by coating seams and corners of the truck bed using the 2-in. brush provided. Dab HERCULINER on rather than brushing it on like paint. Start with a light first coat, being careful not to let HERCULINER clump or run. Coat the tailgate areas in the same manner.

5. After you have completed sealing the seams and corners, begin to roll HERCULINER on the front and side panels of the truck bed using the special foam stipple roller and handle provided.

   

6. Gently roll HERCULINER onto the floor of the truck bed.
7. Coat the tailgate in the same manner. In some applications, it might be beneficial to dab HERCULINER into the lower parts of the floor and tailgate slats with the paint brush and then roll the HERCULINER onto the top part. Be careful to watch for clumping of rubber particles. Keep the brush moist with xylene (Xylol) or store the brush in a small plastic bag during breaks, between coats, etc. Discard the used roller after first coat.

8. After the first coat has been applied to the truck bed and tailgate, allow HERCULINER to set up (approximately 1-4 hours or when it is no longer tacky – slightly longer for gray HERCULINER). Make sure to apply the second coat within 24 hours of the first coat application. Otherwise you will need to clean and scuff the first coat prior to applying the second coat. 

   

   NOTICE: Two coats of HERCULINER are required for adequate coverage. Failure to apply two complete uniform coats will compromise the durability and reduce the longevity of the HERCULINER truck bed coating. 

9. Apply a second coat of HERCULINER to the taped seam just before the first coat dries. This will enable the tape to be removed without tearing. If tape sticks to HERCULINER, run a razor along the taped edge.
10. Repeat the application process for the second coat (steps 4-7).
11. Areas can be touched up with a small brush and unwanted HERCULINER can be removed with xylene (Xylol), acetone or MEK solution while it is still wet.
12. After the second coat is dry to the touch, check for any missed spots and touch up.
    NOTICE: Dispose of unused HERCULINER and all materials used during application in a responsible manner.
13. Install the tailgate and hardware.
14. The truck bed will be ready for light use in 18-24 hours.

APPLICATION TIPS

SURFACE PREPARATION

IMPORTANT! READ CAREFULLY! HERCULINER will bond to all prepared, clean, thoroughly dry surfaces. On sound-painted surfaces, paint must be fully dried or cured to the manufacturer’s specifications. The solvents in HERCULINER will not soften or attack properly dried or cured paint.
General Directions:  Always clean the surface of all oily or waxy contaminants by using recommended cleaning solvent – leave no residue.
Dos and Don’ts

DO:

• Thin HERCULINER with xylene (Xylol) only.
• Use xylene (Xylol) if available; otherwise use acetone or MEK cleaning solvent only for surface preparation.
• Allow solvent to dry completely before applying HERCULINER.
• Clean surface with strong aggressive detergent.
• Ensure surface is completely dry and/or cured if recently painted, before applying HERCULINER.
• Test doubtful surfaces with HERCULINER beforehand.
• Apply the second coat within 24 hours of the first coat application.
• Wear chemical resistant gloves.

DON’T:

• Mix any solvent with HERCULINER except for xylene (Xylol).
• Clean surfaces with lacquer thinners or any solvent containing alcohol, which will prevent HERCULINER from curing.
• Assume the surface is clean unless you have cleaned it yourself.
• Apply HERCULINER if the temperature is below 32°F (0°C) or above 95°F (35°C).
• Use a laquer-based primer.

Surface Preparation for Specific Adhesion
The following information is provided only as a guide, since surfaces can differ significantly. Testing surfaces to ensure proper adhesion is recommended.
Concrete: For best results, new concrete should:

• Be fully cured for at least 28 days.
• Have a brush finish.
• Be hand troweled (power troweling may overwork the concrete).
• Be thoroughly cleaned with a citric cleaner or equivalent.
• Be wiped with xylene (Xylol), acetone or MEK cleaning solvent. Allow solvent to dry completely before applying HERCULINER.

For best results, old concrete should

• Be completely dry before application of HERCULINER.
• Be thoroughly cleaned with a muriatic acid wash.
  1. Use 45% to 50% muriatic acid solution.
  2. Agitate the solution on the surface with a hard-bristled deck brush.
  3. Rinse off with 5% ammonia/water solution.
  4. Dry completely.
  5. Brush off residue.
• Be wiped with xylene (Xylol), acetone or MEK cleaning solvent. Allow solvent to dry completely before applying HERCULINER.

Sealed concrete should be tested for HERCULINER adhesion

1. Clean the surface thoroughly.
2. Roughen the surface.
3. Wipe with xylene (Xylol), acetone or MEK cleaning solvent.
4. Allow solvent to dry completely before applying HERCULINER.
5. Apply HERCULINER.
6. If delamination occurs, the sealer must be removed by mechanical means (i.e., shot blasting).

Concrete Plus Primer
HERCULINER exhibits good adhesion to new acrylic and polyurethane primers applied and overcoated to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Be sure to apply HERCULINER within the time specifications of the primer manufacturer.
Asphalt

1. Prime the surface with a mineral spirit- or water-based driveway sealer according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
2. HERCULINER can then be applied.

Aluminum
Roughen the surface and use primer compatible with aluminum and one part polyurethane. If needed, use a primer specifically made for aluminum. If in doubt, make a small test application first. 
Metal of Herculiner Bed Liner Kit HCL1G8
All smooth metal should be cleaned and aggressively roughened. HERCULINER adheres well to sound-painted metal. Most rough metal surfaces need not be primed; however, on applications of extreme wear, such as step nosings, a primer is recommended.
Rust
All rust should be removed down to the bare metal before applying HERCULINER.
Wood
If wood texture is rough, it may not require special preparation. For best results, lightly sand wood surface before applying HERCULINER. Some pressure-treated woods may need priming. If in doubt, make a small test application first. HERCULINER will bond to Wolmanized treated wood without priming.
Paint and Varnish

1. Remove all peeling, cracking or chipping paint.
2. Clean surface thoroughly.
3. For best results, lightly sand surface.
4. Wipe with xylene (Xylol), acetone or MEK cleaning solvent.
5. Allow solvent to dry completely before applying HERCULINER.

Rubber
Clean well using detergent or cleaning solvent, removing all oil, grease, wax and dirt. Rinse well and allow to dry. Roughen the surface aggressively and then clean with xylene (Xylol), acetone or MEK cleaning solution. Allow solvent to dry completely before applying HERCULINER. HERCULINER coating will not bond to chlorinated rubber.

Herculiner Bed Liner Kit HCL1G8 Fiberglass
Good adhesion can be obtained on unweathered gel-coated glass, rough fiber, side molded glass and smooth-mold resin-side glass. The surface should be free of oils, waxes and other production additives, and then sanded to remove all gloss, leaving a rough surface.

GENERAL APPLICATION

• HERCULINER may be applied with a brush, roller or spray gun. A roller will provide the roughest final texture; a spray gun will provide the least texture.
• HERCULINER can be applied between 32°F and 95°F (0°C and 35°C).
• Before applying HERCULINER, it is important that the surface to be coated is completely clean (see BED SURFACE PREPARATION on page 3).
• Mask all areas not to be coated. Remove masking tape immediately after application of the second coat.

FIRE HAZARD: HERCULINER contains flammable solvents. Ensure proper ventilation and fire precautions.
Roller Application

• Apply HERCULINER with the special open foam stipple roller included in the kit. Extra roller covers are available at your local home supply outlet (i.e., Foam PRO textured paint roller #58).  
• Apply the first coat as a thin coat to cover. When the surface is touch dry or no longer tacky (usually within 1-4 hours – slightly longer for gray HERCULINER), apply the second coat. Extreme climate conditions of heat, cold and humidity can shorten or lengthen this period. 
• Failure to apply two complete uniform coats will compromise the durability and reduce the longevity of the HERCULINER truck bed coating.
• Roll gently to extend the life of the roller cover. 
• To avoid “mud cracking,’’ do not apply HERCULINER too thickly. Pour only xylene (Xylol) thinner/cleaner over rollers between coats so rollers will not dry out.

Brush Application
HERCULINER can be applied with a soft paintbrush in two coats at right angles to one another. (HERCULINER is not a paint, and should be laid onto the surface, in one direction, not brushed out as an oil or latex paint.) Between coats, clean the brush only with the recommended thinner/cleaner xylene (Xylol). The second coat can be applied as soon as the first coat is touch dry (usually within 1-4 hours – slightly longer for gray HERCULINER.) Extreme climate conditions of heat, cold and humidity can shorten or lengthen this period.
Coverage (Two Coats)
One quart (0.9 L) covers a flat area of about 15 square feet (1.4 square meters). One gallon (3.8 L) covers 55-60 square feet (5.1-5.6 square meters), with a final dry coat thickness of 1/16-1/32 in. (1.6-0.8 mm).
Important Advice about Herculiner Bed Liner Kit HCL1G8

• HERCULINER should be stirred thoroughly before applying (preferably with an electric paint mixer).
• Stir periodically to maintain rubber granules in suspension.
• To avoid “mud cracking,” do not allow HERCULINER to pool.
• HERCULINER is a moisture-cured product. An open or partially used can will thicken and eventually become unusable. 
• If the product thickens slightly, it can be thinned by using up to 10% of the recommended thinner/cleaner xylene (Xylol) without affecting performance. Use only xylene (Xylol) to dilute HERCULINER, clean rollers, brushes, spray guns and hoses.

NOTICE: Other solvents can cause product failure. Do not dilute HERCULINER or clean rollers, brushes or spray guns with alcohol or lacquer thinners.

Once the consistency of the product has become pasty, it should be discarded.

PRODUCT CURING INFORMATION

• Normally, HERCULINER can be subjected to light foot traffic within 12 hours and should not be subjected to cleaning or chemical exposure until fully cured, in 3-5 days (approximately 96 hours – slightly longer for gray HERCULINER). 
• HERCULINER takes about 4 days to fully cure: less time in hot humid conditions, and more time in cold dry weather.

NOTICE: Full curing time only affects the amount of time required to wait before subjecting the surface to cleaning and chemical exposure. The surface can be subjected to loading well before this minimum time requirement (see above).

Spray Application

• When using a spray compressor, the operator should always wear a respirator with chemical absorbing cartridges.
• Make sure to thoroughly mix HERCULINER. A drill with a mixing adapter works best. If needed, HERCULINER can be thinned up to 15% with xylene (Xylol) only. 
• Attach spray gun to compressor line, giving pressure of 40-50 PSI (276-345 kPa). Minimum requirements of air compressor: 11-16 CFM (18.7-27.2 m3/min) @ 50 PSI (345 kPa).
• To initially adjust the air/HERCULINER mix, always start with the air pressure. Then slowly raise the fluid pressure gradually lowering the air pressure until the desired flow rate and spray is reached. NEVER open the fluid valve first. This will cause the fluid to back up in the gun due to the lack of air atomization pressure. Air and fluid pressures should be equal. Always favor the air pressure side. However, if the air pressure is too high, fluid flow will reduce to zero. 
• Before starting the job, spray a few short bursts away from the surface to test that everything is working properly.
• Spray an even coat over the entire surface to be covered. Be careful not to apply coat too thickly.
• When surface becomes tacky – between 20 minutes and one hour, depending on weather conditions – spray second coat. Extreme climate conditions of heat, cold and humidity can shorten or lengthen this period.
• Clean spray gun and wipe off hoses between coats and immediately after job is completed. Use xylene (Xylol) only.
• Any further questions with regard to spraying, 

Important Advice

• Remove any over-spray immediately with xylene (Xylol) or acetone. HERCULINER is very difficult to remove once cured.
• Solvents released when spraying are flammable. Observe all fire precautions. Proper ventilation is required.

Repairing HERCULINER
HERCULINER can easily be repaired or over-coated, because it bonds to itself.

• Cut out all damaged HERCULINER to eliminate uneven edges.
• Clean area to be repaired and rough up surrounding HERCULINER with 60-grit sandpaper so that the new application can get a good grip.
• Clean area with xylene (Xylol) only.
• Brush or spray fresh HERCULINER onto cleaned areas, as per application instructions.

Painting HERCULINER

• A polyurethane-based paint will generally adhere to HERCULINER if it is clean, dry and properly roughened.
• Tinting of HERCULINER is not recommended.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF HERCULINER SURFACES

NOTICE: For best results, use a stiff-bristled deck brush to agitate cleaner on the surface. (A cotton mop is not recommended since pieces of mop may get caught on high profile HERCULINER surface. A synthetic fiber material mop may be used if a deck brush is unavailable.)

1. Use any general floor cleaner, from a neutral commercial cleaner to a household cleaner, or its equivalent.
2. Rinse the surface thoroughly to remove all residue.
3. Remove all water with sponge mop, 24 oz (710 mL) mop or water vacuum.
4. Avoid contact with brake fluid and alcohol. 

To restore a gloss finish after cleaning HERCULINER, apply a rubber/vinyl restoration product.

• Alternative Methods
  For larger areas, where the above procedure is not time efficient, there are alternatives available to expedite cleaning.
• Rotary Machine
  A rotary 14 in. (36 cm) waxing-type machine with a blue pad (thickline) can be used in place of a deck brush to greatly increase the area that can be cleaned in a relatively short period of time.
• Rinse-Free Detergent
  If a rinse-free detergent is used, the dirty water pickup can be done with a water vacuum and the job will be complete at that point.
• Automatic Scrubbers
  HERCULINER surfaces can also be cleaned with use of automatic scrubbers. These are machines which in one pass, put down the washing solution, scrub the surface with a blue pad, and vacuum up the dirty water. It should be pointed out that the pad pressure used in the scrubber (using a blue pad) need only be suffi cient for the pad to make light contact with the surface. Heavy scrubbing will negatively affect the HERCULINER surface.

Herculiner Bed Liner Kit HCL1G8 Specific Cleaning Problems 

• Grease Spillage
  To clean a HERCULINER surface of a greasy or slippery solution, it is necessary to use a slightly more aggressive detergent containing a degreaser. There are many such products available from your chemical suppliers.
• Removal of Sticky Substances
  The removal of sticky substances, such as chewing gum, from HERCULINER can be achieved by the periodic use of a pressure washer. A water-pressure spray of 600-700 PSI (41.4-48.3 bar), at an angle of 35-40°, should enable the removal of the substance within 10-15 seconds. This will allow the removal without damaging HERCULINER.
• Removal of Organic Stains
  Organic stains, such as leaves, can be removed using a disinfectant solution that contains a form of ammonium chloride or a slightly acidic cleaner with a pH as close to neutral as possible. Leave on for 5-10 minutes. Rinse off according to the cleaner manufacturer’s recommendations.

WARRANTY

OLD WORLD INDUSTRIES, LLC warranties this product against faulty manufacture and defective materials. OLD WORLD INDUSTRIES, LLC will not accept product liability for application or use of this product.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy to apply with a brush-on or roll-on method
• Highly durable and resistant to wear and tear
• Chemical resistant, including gasoline and oil
• Withstands extreme temperatures
• Custom fit for comprehensive coverage

Cons

• May require multiple coats for optimal protection
• Cleanup can be messy and time-consuming
• Not as thick as some professionally applied bed liners
• May not adhere well to certain surfaces, such as plastic or rubber

Customer Reviews about Herculiner Bed Liner Kit HCL1G8

Customers generally praise the Herculiner Bed Liner Kit HCL1G8 for its ease of application, durability, and chemical resistance. However, some users have noted that multiple coats may be necessary for optimal protection, and cleanup can be messy. The most common complaint is that the liner may not adhere well to certain surfaces, such as plastic or rubber.