Window air deflector removal

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Jan 3, 2005 | 03:26 PM

stein78

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From: Naperville, IL

Window air deflector removal

I just picked up a 2003 F150 FX4 and it has those window air deflectors on all four windows. I think the fronts look good, but it looks real cheesy over the back windows. What is the best way to remove the ones on the back window without damaging the paint? I am assuming that they use some sort of adhesive tape? Will I need to use a hair dryer to head up the adhesive? Any help is appreciated, I just don't want to damage my pefect paint! Here is a pic:

Jan 3, 2005 | 07:59 PM

triton_2002

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From: South Texas

Take some fishing line and wedge it behind the deflector and then slide it back and forth to "saw" it off. After that remove the left over adhesive with automotive adhesive remover, this takes off wax too, so remember to rewax the area. Some people like to use a hair dryer/heat gun but I don't think its neccessary. I have the deflectors too, but I had them painted body color and they blend in nicely.

Jan 3, 2005 | 08:30 PM

stein78

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From: Naperville, IL

Thanks triton, i'll give that a shot. But, I'm gonna wait for the weather to warm up, it's too damn cold outside!

Jan 4, 2005 | 09:51 AM

BillyBob69

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From: Wheatland, Mo

Another item to use to remove the adhesive is brake cleaner. But as TRITON 2002 mentioned, it will strip the wax off too. The fishing line is a great idea and avoids having to put anything damaging under it like a screwdriver to get it to fall from the truck.

Jan 4, 2005 | 11:29 AM

Wizardvette

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I don't know if you have the same situation, but in my truck, my CD changer is right under the driver rear window. I installed a complete set of vent shades and may find it to be a god send if I ever leave my back windows open and get a unexpected rain storm.

Jan 4, 2005 | 04:10 PM

MOOK929RR

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I used fishing line to get the deflectors off, then heated the adhesive up a bit with ahair dryer, then used Turtle Wax Bug and Tar remover. Spray it on, let it sit for about 3-5 mins, then the adhesive wiped right off. Supposedly it has wax in it too, and leaves a waxed finish after you buff it off.

Jan 4, 2005 | 07:10 PM

tsc

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From: SW Ontario

I second/third/fourth the fishing line.

But to protect the paint. Don't use brake cleaner. WD-40 or Goo-B-Gone/Goop off, works the best. Follow up with a quality wax (I suggest Meguiar's NXT, but then again, I'm a Meguair's fanatic)