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<HR style="COLOR: #666666" SIZE=1>I have a white ford diesel that has a painted on pin stripe, and would like to know how I can remove the pin striping with out damaging the trucks white paint. THANKS
First make sure the stripe is above the clearcoat.
I have removed pinstripe with oven cleaner, but I have to warn you that if you are not experienced at doing this, you can RUIN THE PAINT. BEWARE! DANGER, DANGER.
I have also been able to buff it off, again it takes a careful touch and a steady eye.
I really would no recommend that you do this yourself.
Most painted on pinstripes are non-catalyzed enamel, while the clearcoat on your truck (assuming that it's at least a '90's model) is a catalyzed product.
This can work in your favor if you're feeling adventurous. Nail polish remover, or even enamel reducer that you can purchase from an auto body paint store should take that stripe off.
It will also take off a tiny layer of your clearcoat, and deposit some of the stripe color onto the clear, requiring you to take yet more clear away from the surface in order to clean up the smudging.
....This would be most efficiently done with an electric buffer and fairly aggressive compound. A jitterbug or orbital won't work for this. Overall, it's a pretty lengthy weekend project, and there's no guarantee of success.
Which brings me to my point- IMO you ought to have a competent auto detail guy, or a professional painter/buffer take care of it. Peace of mind.
They make a rubber adhesive eraser for drills (you can get them at autobody supply stores) that can take it off. Also try laquer thinner (good stuff) and a good cotton rag or old tshirt (no printing on it) A good quality buffing compound and buffer will also take it off, but you have to be careful you dont go thru the clear coat.