removing graphics and residue.

[natwales]

I have a 24' 1988 starfire entertainer.<br /><br />It's a very well built boat, but it has some really ugly 1980's looking graphics on the cabinhouse. The graphics seem to be applied in two parts- one with the graphics, and the other a sort of plastic overlay to protect them. I used a headgun and a razor blade to start peeling away some of the decal, but it left a sticky residue that I am having a hard time removing. I tried a number of chemicals including acetone, and 3m adheasive remover, but nothing really does a nice job on removing this residue.<br /><br />Has anyone had any experiance with this and can they recommend a clean way to get these graphics off?

 

[JB]

Re: removing graphics and residue.

I have used "Goof Off" with good results. Got it at WallyWorld.

 

[studlymandingo]

Re: removing graphics and residue.

D-limonene works great for adhesive removal. Look on the internet for a source near you. Most industrial chemical suppliers carry it. It's like goof-off, only 10 times as strong.

 

[garrett61]

Re: removing graphics and residue.

Goof off will usually take paint off and eat thru upholstery etc. Be carefull. I used Goo Off it seems to be weaker but will take it all of also. Good Luck

 

[natwales]

Re: removing graphics and residue.

I will try the goo off first.<br /><br />This D-limonene - what's it going to do to my gelcoat?

 

[studlymandingo]

Re: removing graphics and residue.

It is a solvent made from citrus oils. I have used it on my boat with no ill effects to my gelcoat.

 

[sanssouci]

Re: removing graphics and residue.

natwales there is a product call Tumbler that the sign shops all have it's for removing vinyl graphics. I have friend who gave me about 1/4 gal. some years a go and I still have it, the trick is to leave on for a long time to let work. Then with a plastic scraper and off it comes. sans

 

[bomar76]

Re: removing graphics and residue.

One of the VERY few things WD-40 is good for is removing the sticky residue from graphics.

 

[P51D]

Re: removing graphics and residue.

Natwales - I have to remove some decals from gelcoat, so if you could let us know what worked the best, I'd be grateful. The decals I'm removing are letters. Some of the letters are already missing, and they have left "shadows" in the gelcoat. I don't think it's a residue issue, since the gelcoat seems completely clean and smooth to the touch. Any ideas here?<br /><br />And to add to Bomar76's list, another good use for WD-40 is for removing road tar from your car.

 

[bomar76]

Re: removing graphics and residue.

Yeah, it's where your gelcoat has faded.<br />The whole boat has faded that much, so it's time to buff it all out with polishing compound.<br /><br />I concur the Tar issue is another of the very few uses of WD40.

 

[xltier]

Re: removing graphics and residue.

wd-40 and a soft bristle brush works great.