I wish I had thought of the heat gun to make the decal more pliable. Since I didn't, it cost me a couple of mistakes. But that's why they call it a learning curve.
The reason I have this project underway, is to have a driver console and save my original from the elements. It's still in very good condition, and I want to keep it that way.
The replacement decal is darker, has more texture and is thicker than original. But who's not to say the factory equipment didn't start off like that. Mister sunshine can fade things out, even when the best of care is taken. If anything, I say it come very close.
I may get another decal set just to re-do the end cap. Now I have a better understanding of what it takes to restore this part of the console.