Can I spray polyurethane over lacquer?

[BadgerDave]

I'm attempting to add a custom headstock decal to a nitrocellulose lacquer finished neck. I have both nitro and polyurethane in spray cans. When I spray lacquer over the decal, it disintigrates around the edges and the printing bubbles and dissolves.

I've done several of these with the spray poly so I know it won't affect the decal, but will it react to the nitro finish underneath?

Yes, I could sand off all of the nitro, but then I'd have a vintage tinted neck with a very white maple headstock - not ideal.

Any advice? Thanks.

[tbonesullivan]

it might react with the nitro on the neck, as well as the fresh nitro. though, there are a TON of solvents in spray nitro, which then evaporate. Maybe you could hit it with one coat of poly, and then more nitro?

[murkat]

Paging Stike to the Expert courtesy desk...

[BCR Greg]

Spray a spare decal with lacquer LIGHTLY and let it dry. If there is no distortion, hit it again with another light coat. After a few hours drop it in water and apply it. Now you can spray lacquer over it.

[Stike]

I've never had that happen so I'd say follow Greg's advice.

As for product compatability (Is it a non catalyzed Minwax type urethane, I'm going to guess yes?) adhesion could be a problem but I don't think there would be any bad reaction.