removing graphics

[rick robbins]

my boats name is in a graphic(decal?)form on the side of my boat.other than scraping it off with a razor blade does anyone have any suggestions to remove it with the greatest of ease and least damage to the boat?i am planning on keeping the name but would like to change the graphic itself.

 

[LaDonna Bubak - Planet Catalina]

Hairdryer

If it's vinyl (as opposed to paint), use a regular hairdryer. Start on Low and turn up if needed. It'll take a few minutes but it will soften up the vinyl & you can pull it off in chunks. There are other options but this is the best, least damagining way to start.LaDonna

 

[Tom]

heat gun

I used a heat gun on low setteing and a plastic scrapper/putty knife. The hairdryer i used did not get hot enough to have much effect. Be careful not to heat the surface too much! After that I used acetone to remove what little residue was left.

 

[Duane Maher]

Use Island Girl Pink or Clear for the least

damage. It will remove the decal and the residue. You will find that a shadow will remain where the decal was. When I used Crystal Clear, not only did it remove the decal but brought the surrounding gelcoat back to the orginal color that matches what was under the decals.

 

[LaDonna Bubak - Catalina Owners]

Be VERY careful if you use a heatgun

I know Tom mentioned to be careful, but that can't be stressed enough. BE CAREFUL if you use a heatgun cuz it literally could char your boat - much worse than a couple of scrapes from a razor blade! LaDonna

 

[David]

Easy Off Oven Cleaner

I recently purchased a new (to me) boat and was faced with the same thing. Someone told me Easy-Off oven cleaner works. They were right. That's what all the "pro" graphic shops use in this area. Just spray on, & scrape gently with a razor blade after about 30 secs.

 

[Bob Stephens]

I just removed the old name on a boat that I just purchased. I used 3M Woodgrain & Stripe Remover (part 08907). Used as directed with a plastic scrapper it is very fast and easy. No scraches. Follow up with 3M adhesive remover. Fantastic products!