Removing Plastic Trim?
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Removing Plastic Trim?
I want to remove that useless plastic trim that runs down the side of the truck...I remember removing some on my '98 F-150 and it was a PITA!! Not getting it off, but removing the residual adhesive on the truck.
Is this going to be the same thing that I face when I remove it off this truck? On the 150 I didn't use a heat gun to remove it so I was thinking I will use a heat gun this time and see how it peels off?
Anyone done this? If so suggestions would be appreciated...
Thanks,
JB
Is this going to be the same thing that I face when I remove it off this truck? On the 150 I didn't use a heat gun to remove it so I was thinking I will use a heat gun this time and see how it peels off?
Anyone done this? If so suggestions would be appreciated...
Thanks,
JB
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Let it sit in direct sunlight for awhile if you dont have a heat gun. The hotter the day, the better. Use a piece of monofilament fishing line to get the process started by using it to cut the adhesive loose between the molding and the body. When you have an inch or so loose, grab it with a pair of vice grips and SLOWLY pull it away from the truck. The slower you go, the less adhesive you'll leave behind. What is left behind is a PITA to remove. Get some Goof Off a small plastic scraper, and some cheap micro fiber cloths and you'll eventually get it off. Use some degreaser afterwards (the Goof Off is oily) then some polishing compond followed by you favorite wax.
I did this to a '95 year old F150 a couple years ago, turned out good. The paint didn't get scratched in the process, but the glue from the molding left slight yellow stains in the white paint (white wasn't clear coated yet in '95). Hope this helps.
I used a heat gun that time because it was in the fall. Be VERY carefull with the heat gun or you will ruin the paint. I'd get no closer than 10" to the paint with it. It's easy with 2 people if you use the heat gun. One can direct the heat at the molding while the other pulls it off.
I did this to a '95 year old F150 a couple years ago, turned out good. The paint didn't get scratched in the process, but the glue from the molding left slight yellow stains in the white paint (white wasn't clear coated yet in '95). Hope this helps.
I used a heat gun that time because it was in the fall. Be VERY carefull with the heat gun or you will ruin the paint. I'd get no closer than 10" to the paint with it. It's easy with 2 people if you use the heat gun. One can direct the heat at the molding while the other pulls it off.
Last edited by JKBrad; Jul 12, 2007 at 11:08 AM.
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Wear gloves when using the fishing line or it will cut your hands. If you don't have a heat gun a hair dryer will work ok, but not quite as good. Other than that JKBrad has everything covered I think.
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I did this to a '95 year old F150 a couple years ago
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