signwriting outline

[rogers190]

i have bought a 56 plate fiesta from the auction but the company before me put there website on the side but they have been taken off but still have the outline on the door and in some places the glue is on the whole letter, what can i use to get this off without damaging the paint work

[Anatol]

The 'outline' is probably a combination of grime that was around the edge of the letter, and the difference in wear between the protected finish under the vinyl, and that exposed to the elements.

The glue is almost certainly vinyl PSA. It will soften when warm, so hot air will help. You'll probably find a dedicated tar/sap/bug remover product and then warm soapy water will do the job without you needing to try any harsher solvents. The Tesco's own brand one which is bright pink is remarkably effective for a supermarket product, I've found.

Acetone (nail polish remover) is the most common suggestion for removing sticky glue from almost anything, and while a recent factory finish should more than withstand a gentle application of it, don't go to a solvent like that unless you need to.

After cleaning the glue off, a deep paintwork cleanser (all the major manufacturer's have one in their range - don't use T-cut!) and then a gentle polish and/or wax should remove your outlines. If you have access to a PC/UDM polisher, or a skilled user of a rotary polisher, that will save on your elbow grease.

Hope it goes well!

HTH

Tol

[RReflections]

You'll need to use a tar and glue remover for the gum thats left on there, as for the edges (sticker shadow) you really need to have the paint machine polished to bring the colour and finish upto the level that it is where the stickers were.

[japhilip]

I've done a bit of this before, to get rid of the glue, either warm, soapy water and a sponge, or a dry soft cloth. Alternatively, rub it with your fingers, but this gets a little painful after a while. I found solvents to be no more effective than the above, but that's just my experience.

All will take a bit of elbow grease and time.

[rogers190]

thanks guys it really helped, it took a while but its now all removed, thanks again.