Anyone ever remove this stuff?

[liv2bike]

The clear vinyl film on my rear flares is looking nasty. Yellowing, cracking and generally weathered. I want to peel it off. Has anyone ever done this? What was left behind? Stuff has been on for over 10 years so I am afraid the paint will be damaged. I was going to use a hair dryer to heat up the vinyl and peel it off. Then use something to remove any left behind glue.

Just looking for input on y'alls experience removing this adhesive. Thanks!

 

[Brentif]

I have removed tons of that stuff (I used to install 3M Clear bras). That is a rock chip guard, and it looks like it has seen better days. The best way to remove this would be with a steamer. If you have access to one it will make life waaaaaaaaay easier. Steam an edge so it gets pliable, then use your finger nail and pick up a corner. Once you get a hold of it run the steam back and forth on it and pull the material off (be careful a steamer is hot and can cause your skin to blister easily). It works best to pull the material horizontal to the surface of the paint, this helps the adhesive release and will minimize the amount of it left on the paint. Use goof off or something similar to remove any left over glue. If you do not have have access to a steamer you could try to use a heat gun on a low setting, but that will end up leaving a lot more glue on the paint. You should plan to wax the vehicle after you remove this, as the Paint Protection film will pull any wax off that used to be there. Holler if you have any other questions.

 

[Brentif]

With a steamer you should be able to complete both sides and remove any residual adhesive within an hour.

 

[5RUNNERZ]

thank you brentif that helps me out a lot! I have been wounding about this for a couple weeks now!