my decals are coming off do i need to do a clear coat to lock it n or decal setting solution will work?

Typically, you don't need anything to lock them in. Clear coating over top is usually to protect them from the weathering stages (i.e. washes, etc.).

It sounds like either the decal adhesive is too weak on your particular decals or too much got washed away when they were applied. Did you blot them down with a paper towel or q-tip after applying them? Also, did you apply them over a gloss coat or a flat coat of paint? There may be air under the decal if it was done over a matt surface.

I'm not sure if the setting solution will help now. Might be worth a shot. If you could get them to stick back down, you could put a coat of Future or another gloss coat over them to hold them down.

Good luck!

- Frank

Sounds as if the decals may be old. Not sure if they can be salvaged. Is this related to the slivering question for your Sherman?

I believe this months Fine Scale Modeler has an artical on Decaling by Paul Boyer that might be helpful.

I agree with Topsmith about the latest issue of Fine Scale Modeler. I always either use a gloss base to apply the decals onto then apply either another coat of gloss or matt depending on what type of finish is required.

I have found that Tamiya gloss coat, decal, and then two coats of Tamiya gloss to protect, a coat of future and weathering, with a final matt coat works well fo me.

I used this method as Dullcote sprayed directly on Archer decals can melt them - as I found out the hard way -