Removing 3M tape removal without damaging paint

[chorky]

A while ago I installed some cheap plastic covers over the hinges to protect from being destroyed by rocks. Now that I have rokblokz mud flaps, and hopefully soon the MOPAR extended rock rails, I want to remove these covers to keep an eye on peeling paint that so many others have experienced.

I believe, from reading other articles, that applying heat from a small torch (on low of course) will soften the 3M tape so it can be removed, but want to double check and see what the community thinks. Last thing I want to do is destroy the paint. Probably should have just gotten the rocker guards to begin with but thats all in the past now.

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[Dickster]

Heat gun and rubber eraser

 

[Killroy Was Here]

This should work for you:
https://www.jeepgladiatorforum.com/forum/threads/tailgate-letter-r-r-tips-tricks.45225/

For God's sake, don't use a torch!

 

[chorky]

This should work for you:
https://www.jeepgladiatorforum.com/forum/threads/tailgate-letter-r-r-tips-tricks.45225/

For God's sake, don't use a torch!

A small handheld torch with a diffuser at the end so there is no flame only heat - it's all I have to work with.

 

[Cburd61]

Try using fishing line. If you can get it between the cover and the hinge, pull it through the tape. Once off, soak the tape/ residue left on the hinge with WD-40, or Goof Off. It will loosen it enough to basically peel it off. Alternatively, soak them by spraying WD-40 from the top, and let it soak in good for a while. They should pull right off.

 

[Green_Gladiator]

Heat gun and rubber eraser

Works every time without damage to the paint. Adhesive peels right off with the heat and any leftover glue just rub easily with eraser. Denatured alcohol works great in combination as well.

 

[Charles 236]

A small handheld torch with a diffuser at the end so there is no flame only heat - it's all I have to work with.

How about a hand held hairdryer? No chance of damage to the paint. This is what I have used in the past, and it works for me.

 

[upnover]

fishing line and 3M adhesive remover wheel.

 

[Volksparts]

I've been using spiderwire fishing line for a number of years now without issues. Key is to use a brand new thread on each emblem.

 

[Maximus Gladius]

Careful with the good ol’ chemical GOOF OFF that contains xylene.

The safe Goof Off is the “green” environmentally friendly kind. Also floss works good like fishing line too. I’d also try the hair dryer first.

 

[Gmac03]

Hair dryer or heat gun, fishing line or floss, then a 3m adhesive wheel. Quick clean, polish and wax and you’re in business. ??

 

[Russ2023]

I trust the torch idea was just a joke. A heat gun on medium or a blow dryer and either fishing line, sewing thread or Dentafloss. Been doing it for years and the only real trick is taking your time. GL.

 

[Outback_Joe]

I have used mineral sprits and floss with good results. Its not hot like acetone so it won't soften your paint. But by no means use a torch or any open flame around you paint. It can make a mess faster than you can react.

 

[chorky]

I trust the torch idea was just a joke. A heat gun on medium or a blow dryer and either fishing line, sewing thread or Dentafloss. Been doing it for years and the only real trick is taking your time. GL.

Not a joke. I do not have a heat gun. Not a big torch. One of the small handheld ones powered by butane that has a soldering tip a heat tip and an open flame tip. Obviously I would use the heat tip since open flame is clearly a no go. Its my only option At the moment.

 

[Russ2023]

Not a joke. I do not have a heat gun. Not a big torch. One of the small handheld ones powered by butane that has a soldering tip a heat tip and an open flame tip. Obviously I would use the heat tip since open flame is clearly a no go. Its my only option At the moment.

i know nothing whatsoever about torches but just be careful. It doesn’t take as much heat as you might think to damage the paint. If you have or can just borrow a hairdryer I’d try that first if you can. A hairdryer on hot is plenty warm enough. Best of luck!

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