Vintage Kingfisher Boat

[PPP]

Working on a boat from Oklahoma and attempting to comply with Texas Parks & Wildlife rules. I've been trying to remove the old state required self-adhesive numbers on a fiberglass boat hull in order to apply new ones. Ordinarily I would just stick the new numbers over the old ones but they are of a different size. Applied heat will not phase the old adhesive nor can I scrape them off. Do any of you know of a way or substance that will loosen the adhesive without damaging the gel coat on the fiberglass?

 

[Trooper82]

Re: Vintage Kingfisher Boat

I've always used lighter fluid (naptha) to break up adhesives, usually works pretty good.

Are you able to lift the decals at all? If not, my method might not help.

 

[GT1000000]

Re: Vintage Kingfisher Boat

Another possibilty is use some brand new single edge razor blades...carefully tipped almost flat to the surface between the gelcoat and the old decals...use a slight rocking/wiggle motion and slowly work the edge between the two materials...go slowly and afterwards, when the majority of the old letters/numbers are gone, you can use any number of solvents to remove the glue residue...

One more option is to use an eraser wheel on a drill motor...similar to this

They are available at auto body supply houses or through places like Amazon...

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: Vintage Kingfisher Boat

The eraser wheel ^^^^^ is the best method and will not effect the Gelcoat. Makes quick work of the decals.

 

[PPP]

Re: Vintage Kingfisher Boat

Thanks to all of you. I'll try the suggestions you've given me.