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tshirtman's avatar
tshirtman
Explorer
Mar 08, 2014

Decal removal

I'm removing an old(10year old decal ) and replacing it with a new one-same size and logo, I have heated and scraped the old one off with a plastic putty knife and a hair dryer and there remains a layer -white- very well adhered to the trailer? Does that layer need to come off prior to adhering the new decal? Do I need a 3M rubber wheel and remove it? Can I install the new logo over this ?

thank you for your input-
Tshirtman
  • The decal protects the gelcoat,it is not uncommon to have a higher area where the decal was. If a decal is truly stuck you can stack it,It is done on boat names and truck doors all the time. I wouldn't unless it is completely covered by the new one with a few inches all the way around. You will see the edge through the new vinyl. You can do it but not really the best idea.
  • Is it the sticker or is it just unfaded gel coat? When I replaced mine the white unfaded gel coat was all the remained once I wiped it with Goo Gone and alcohol.
  • Yes, you have to get all the residue off for the new one to adhere. You might find that using a heat gun held about 8~10" away makes the sticker let go and take all the glue along with it. Or at least that's how it worked for me.
  • I've used Goof Off for similar issues. Works well. As always, test a small inconspicuous spot first.

    Goof Off
  • Forgot to mention I have removed the adhesive and goo from the cleaned area and the image is smooth but the bottom layer remains.