Hard to remove residue

Alexh6 · 06-09-2009

I recently removed the factory vinyl stripes off of the bottom and the side of my '07. Unfortunately, I was left with a very hard, dry, white...blemishes, I guess you could say. I'm not sure if these are paint problems, or just leftover residue from the stripes. What would be the best method for removing these? I was thinking of Goo Gone, but whatever this is, it's somewhat thick at some spots, and I'm not sure if this would get the job done... I can take pics if needed.

Thank you.

superstock · 06-09-2009

If its thick in some spots its most likely residue. Graphicsexpress.com specializes in stripes for mustangs and for removal of residue they say to use naphtha base cleaner. Heres the link to what you're asking about http://www.graphic-express.com/x-ins...al_removal.asp

Alexh6 · 06-09-2009

Haha thanks. I saw that on their site, as I ordered some stripes from them a week ago and am applying them now, which is why I was removing the factory striping. I haven't used Naptha, I thought it was paint thinner. I will try that, though, thanks.

**jim293** · 06-09-2009

Goo gone would work if it is some left over sticky stuff.

Alexh6 · 06-11-2009

Just an update... Neither the goo gone, or the NAPTHA worked. I'm thinking now that it might be some tiny, tiny bits of leftover vinyl... Anyway I can get this off without damaging the paint?

**jim293** · 06-11-2009

That maybe what it is. Can you just kind of scratch at it with your finger nail and see if it comes off?

Alexh6 · 06-11-2009

I have tried, what is leftover is pretty hard and I can't get it with just my fingernails.

**jim293** · 06-11-2009

Maybe you should run it to a body shop and ask there opinion.

Alexh6 · 06-12-2009

I might just do that. I'm going to try a plastic putty knife first though. I doubt that'd scratch anything.

SpookyStang · 06-12-2009

I used straight vinegar on my leftover pieces of vinyl after I took my stripes off. I didn't really have too many pieces left over, though. The vinegar ate through most of it.

You can also try what a friend on another forum told me:

- Get a good sized jug of 3M adhesive remover.
- Get some paper towels and soak the towels in 3M adhesive remover.
- Cover the towels with saran wrap to keep the 3M adhesive remover from evaporating too quick.
- Let it sit for about 10 minutes and pull it all off. The adhesive will have turned into a gel.
- Use a stiff squeegee or some lightly flexable plastic and squeegee the gell off.
- Then put some 3m on a towel and wipe off the rest.

Hope that helps.

**jim293** · 06-13-2009

That 3M stuff should do it. That is probably what is it some left overs. Keep us posted.