Removing Decals

[drodg]

I am buying a rebuilder kit from 70 that has probably had decals on it for 40 years. I am wondering what is the best way to remove them and also the body has never been painted? The decals were just put on the plastic body. Thanks

[drodg]

Will the Castrol harm the plastic? Are you using like packing tape? I never thought about that but I would think that would work. Thanks

[Marc @ MPC Motorsports]

Will the Castrol harm the plastic? Are you using like packing tape? I never thought about that but I would think that would work. Thanks

Castrol Super Clean, Purple Power and similar "purple" cleaners will not hurt styrene and are used by many of us to strip enamel paints from models. Packing tape that you would use to seal boxes is what he is referring to.

[Ramcharger]

A belt sander! The big industrial model set on kill, that ought to do it! Just Kidding! The purple pond will take them off and the body will be extra clean and ready for primer.

[drodg]

Thanks everyone.

[Scale-Master]

Decals are made to stick to paint, not plastic. As Mark Taylor said, tape - n - pull. You can use a little decal solvent or alcohol to remove the little chips that may hang on without damaging the plastic at all. I'd avoid any "paint" strippers.

[drodg]

Thanks guys I appreciate your time and input. Dave

[charlie8575]

Anyone tried removing decals from tires? My wheels/tires are assembled, so strippers like Super Clean aren't a good idea. Do you think the alcohol will work on vinyl?

Charlie Larkin

[Scale-Master]

I’d try the tape first, if that does not work, I’d move up to a little lacquer thinner on a paper towel or Q-tip. Stay clear of the wheels though since they are still in the tires, you wouldn’t want to knock off the chrome or paint…