Removing Glue Residue

[hpeeler]

I want to change the numbers on my boat. What is the best thing/trick to get the glue residue off of the gelcoat? I was thinking GooGone but was hoping for some secret tip. Thanks

 

[Bondo]

Re: Removing Glue Residue

What is the best thing/trick to get the glue residue off of the gelcoat?

Ayuh,... WD-40 on a stiff cotton rag works, Ok...

 

[DuckHunterJon]

Re: Removing Glue Residue

I used acetone on mine. I tried it in a small hidden spot first to make sure it woudn't hurt the gelcoat. If you want a little safer version - citrus based "goo-gone" works with some elbow grease.

 

[rickryder]

Re: Removing Glue Residue

I've used zippo lighter fluid to remove sticker glue.

 

[nlain]

Re: Removing Glue Residue

I just posted to this question over on CSR. Try just a rag wet with water, back in the day of state inspections once we scraped the old sticker off the windshield the wet rag got rid of the rest. This sticker glue may be different but I would give it a try before I used the harsh stuff.

 

[robert graham]

Re: Removing Glue Residue

I use carb cleaner on a rag for all kinds of cleaning jobs, but mineral spirits, acetone, WD-40 all work well also.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Removing Glue Residue

Start with denatured or rubbing alcohol. If that doesn't work, step up to turpentine and then to acetone. Test acetone for any softening of the finish, especially on paint, in an obscure. Acetone will not affect gelcoat or any resin, if it is fully cured.

 

[N3UP]

Re: Removing Glue Residue

Good timing on this thread.
I need to change then numbers on my boat too.
Any suggestions on how to get old numbers off that have been on for maybe 15 years?

I'm thinking a little careful use of a heat gun.....

 

[nlain]

Re: Removing Glue Residue

Heat gun/hair dryer is the way, just don't get too hot.

 

[mciaio]

Re: Removing Glue Residue

I used Goo Gone. Can get it at Wally World, and worked great for numbers and old name.

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Removing Glue Residue

goo gone can leave a residue that affects the surface when you replace the stickers, so you may need to follow up with acetone anyway. One of the purposes of the thickener in products like goo gone is to allow it to sit on the treated area; acetone evaporates fast and doesn't linger on a vertical surface.
I think I'd use a hair dryer before a heat gun; they can really get away from you fast.