Our 2019 Alterra 450 4×4 project build is entering one of my favorite final stages, and that’s the vinyl graphics. Since I’m prepping this for Blown Concepts, Ill give you some important graphic removal tips.
Scrolling various forums and social pages, Ive seen some pretty poor suggestions for sticker removal. Here’s what I recommend if you don’t want to damage your plastics.
These tips apply to pretty much any sticker removal for snowmobiles, PWC, boats, motorcycles and autos.
Warning stickers are there for a reason and it’s suggested you don’t remove them. Our graphics will be covering this fender area, so they’ll need to disappear.
Warning stickers are a thin material. If you try to remove them without heat, they will crack, and peel off in chunks. As evidenced in the above photo.
The best way to peel a warning label or other graphics is to use LIGHT heat from a blow dryer. It doesn’t take much heat.
DON’T EVER USE something like a propane torch! And in most cases, a heat gun can be overkill. You can think about using them, but don’t do it! High heat will weaken plastics, discolor and even melt.
When your graphics are warmed and peeled, you may have some sticker residue left behind and see the outline where the sticker used to be. (See above photo)
I highly suggest using a Citrus sticker remover like Goo Gone. Most times this can be found at a Home Depot, Menards or the like. Make sure to use a Terry Cloth to wipe clean. Never use paper towels as they’ll leave scratches behind.
I cringe every time I see someone recommend using carb or brake cleaners to clean sticker residue. Same goes for using gasoline, paint thinners and the like. DONT DO IT! Ever.
To recap, these should be your three Go-To’s for sticker removal:
1. Hair Dryer
2. Goo Gone (Sticker Residue Remover)
3. Terry Cloth