Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

[bedwards36426]

Got a 94 Sea Rayder lucky enough to find a whole decal set in new condition online. Now I have the wonderful job of removing the old ones. Any tricks or tips for me? I have a heat gun but haven't used it yet. Thanks for your input.

 

[greenbush future]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

I would start with a hair drier first, dont want to hurt the gel-coat. Call the manufacture and ask them, or google it, I bet you will get all kinds of good solutions.

 

[bedwards36426]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

I would start with a hair drier first, dont want to hurt the gel-coat. Call the manufacture and ask them, or google it, I bet you will get all kinds of good solutions.

Thanks buddy. I am nervous about messing it up. Also just as nervous about putting the new ones on. Two down the sides are 12' long. Oh well probably extremely difficult to line up?? Thanks

 

[GT1000000]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

Hi and Welcome,

Hair Dryer / Heat gun, good place to start, try and get a hard plastic putty knife, warm up the area and try to remove...

Next one is a bit risky, but with lots of patience and care, you can do it... Use a brand new single edge razor blade, turned almost flat to the surface, between the surface and the decal, remove most of the decal and adhesive , then use some adhesive remover, or laquer thinner, or acetone, or even some mineral spirits , to remove the rest of the adhesive...
One tip is to dull the corners of the razor a little, might keep it from scratching...

ALWAYS test whatever chemicals you are going to use in an inconspicuos place to make sure it isn't goin to eat the finish off...

Then, finally, this is what I use, maybe you can rent a similar tool... http://www.dynabrade.com/dyn10/prod...3JTgw&epf=JUEzJUJDJTg3&market=&vacuum=&search=

These work wonders, and if the surface is in good condition, won't hurt anything and leave it ready for a final wipe down and application of your new decals...

As a last resort, you can try some kind of chemical stripping agent, but again, TEST first...

Good Luck,
GT1M

 

[GT1000000]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

Thanks buddy. I am nervous about messing it up. Also just as nervous about putting the new ones on. Two down the sides are 12' long. Oh well probably extremely difficult to line up?? Thanks

Got an answer for you, but it will take a few minutes to scribble...be back in a few...

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

These things work great and will not damage your gelcoat. 3/8 or 1/2" drill. Just don't stay in one spot to long and get it hot. Keep it moving

Heat gun and razor scaper as mentioned also works well.

http://www.amazon.com/AES-Industries-Smart-Eraser-Adaptor/dp/B00488DDB8/ref=pd_cp_hi_0

 

[GT1000000]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

When you are ready to put on the new ones, don't fret...not that big of a deal

Decals are on a sort of see-thru paper backing...lets you see through it for positioning

There are three total layers to most decals
1-Decal Backing, holds the decal's shape until applied
2-decal itself
3-Adhesive protective barrier

I recommend doing this in a shady area, if possible and be in a relaxed mood...this is not something you want to tackle with a bunch of stuff going on around you or in your head...

You will need a few items...
Spray bottle
2-3 DROPS of dish soap, Dawn or Dove preferred, but most any will work
Plastic Squeegee, like a bondo spreader
masking tape
sharpie
tape measure

1- Using the tape measure and a strip of masking tape to mark on the boat where you are going to put them, a guide line.
2- Use a sharpie on the decal backing to make a matching line...
3- Get a spray bottle and fill it with water, then add 2-3 drops of dish detergent...this makes what is known as wet water, shake it up.
4- Remove the decals adhesive protective backing and generously spray it with the wet water.
5- Do the same to the area you are going to apply it to.
6- Now begin to position the decal, the wet water will allow you to slide it around and get it positioned exactly where you want it. If it begins to get too sticky and not want to slide around, remove and re-wet with the wet water.
7- Once you have it in place, carefully, without moving it or applying too much pressure, begin to Squeegee the water out from the center out to the edges...keep doing, applying a little more pressure each pass, this until most of the water and air bubbles are gone.
8- Let them dry completely! Then remove the decal backing.
9- If, you happen to end up with any air bubbles, use a pin, pop the bubble, and using the squeegee and a hair dryer, flatten it out...

If you have any questions before you start, just ask...I'll try and help.
GT1M

 

[bedwards36426]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

Hi and Welcome,

Hair Dryer / Heat gun, good place to start, try and get a hard plastic putty knife, warm up the area and try to remove...

Next one is a bit risky, but with lots of patience and care, you can do it... Use a brand new single edge razor blade, turned almost flat to the surface, between the surface and the decal, remove most of the decal and adhesive , then use some adhesive remover, or laquer thinner, or acetone, or even some mineral spirits , to remove the rest of the adhesive...
One tip is to dull the corners of the razor a little, might keep it from scratching...

ALWAYS test whatever chemicals you are going to use in an inconspicuos place to make sure it isn't goin to eat the finish off...

Then, finally, this is what I use, maybe you can rent a similar tool... http://www.dynabrade.com/dyn10/prod...3JTgw&epf=JUEzJUJDJTg3&market=&vacuum=&search=

These work wonders, and if the surface is in good condition, won't hurt anything and leave it ready for a final wipe down and application of your new decals...

As a last resort, you can try some kind of chemical stripping agent, but again, TEST first...

Good Luck,
GT1M

Thanks for the info. Ill check the link out

 

[bedwards36426]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

When you are ready to put on the new ones, don't fret...not that big of a deal

Decals are on a sort of see-thru paper backing...lets you see through it for positioning

There are three total layers to most decals
1-Decal Backing, holds the decal's shape until applied
2-decal itself
3-Adhesive protective barrier

I recommend doing this in a shady area, if possible and be in a relaxed mood...this is not something you want to tackle with a bunch of stuff going on around you or in your head...

You will need a few items...
Spray bottle
2-3 DROPS of dish soap, Dawn or Dove preferred, but most any will work
Plastic Squeegee, like a bondo spreader
masking tape
sharpie
tape measure

1- Using the tape measure and a strip of masking tape to mark on the boat where you are going to put them, a guide line.
2- Use a sharpie on the decal backing to make a matching line...
3- Get a spray bottle and fill it with water, then add 2-3 drops of dish detergent...this makes what is known as wet water, shake it up.
4- Remove the decals adhesive protective backing and generously spray it with the wet water.
5- Do the same to the area you are going to apply it to.
6- Now begin to position the decal, the wet water will allow you to slide it around and get it positioned exactly where you want it. If it begins to get too sticky and not want to slide around, remove and re-wet with the wet water.
7- Once you have it in place, carefully, without moving it or applying too much pressure, begin to Squeegee the water out from the center out to the edges...keep doing, applying a little more pressure each pass, this until most of the water and air bubbles are gone.
8- Let them dry completely! Then remove the decal backing.
9- If, you happen to end up with any air bubbles, use a pin, pop the bubble, and using the squeegee and a hair dryer, flatten it out...

If you have any questions before you start, just ask...I'll try and help.
GT1M

Thanks man. I hear ya. You sure dont wanna tackle this on a ill tempered day. Thanks for the tips. Let you know if I runinto anything

 

[bedwards36426]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

These things work great and will not damage your gelcoat. 3/8 or 1/2" drill. Just don't stay in one spot to long and get it hot. Keep it moving

Heat gun and razor scaper as mentioned also works well.

http://www.amazon.com/AES-Industries-Smart-Eraser-Adaptor/dp/B00488DDB8/ref=pd_cp_hi_0

Never seen one of these. Looks Great Perfect for the job. I love AMAZON!!!!! Thanks

 

[GT1000000]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

Never seen one of these. Looks Great Perfect for the job. I love AMAZON!!!!! Thanks

Yeah, leave it up to WOG to find the perfect inexpensive solution...I actually started with one of these before I got my Dynabrade...works excellent...

 

[evolution1985]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

hey mate, I used one (okay so actually 3):facepalm: of those pinstripe removal erasers on my last boat. Works GREAT. but it takes a little to get used to. On my new project I plan on using these again. If you have a local smash shop ( automotive panel repairs) not sure what you call them in your neck of the woods. You should be able to pick them up really easy off them. I think I paid about 7 or 8 dollars each.

best of luck with replacing your decals mate.

 

[bedwards36426]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

hey mate, I used one (okay so actually 3):facepalm: of those pinstripe removal erasers on my last boat. Works GREAT. but it takes a little to get used to. On my new project I plan on using these again. If you have a local smash shop ( automotive panel repairs) not sure what you call them in your neck of the woods. You should be able to pick them up really easy off them. I think I paid about 7 or 8 dollars each.

best of luck with replacing your decals mate.

Thanks buddy. Ive got a few ordered and on the way. As well as a plastic razor scraper. Thanks for all the help.

 

[Yacht Dr.]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

Good morning Bedwards .

I would like to add a few things to all of the great suggestions posted as I have done a few of these on SeaRayders.

First thing .. Wash your boat well ( especially the rub rail area ).

I personally like to acetone wipe the area before application.
I like the hair dryer method on the large Graphic.
Being such a large graphic I suggest doing this with another person on hand. ( one person holds the graphic while the second person peels and lays down ).
That particular graphic lays over a 'character' line that is a real pita! Try to position and lay in that Radius before placing the rest above or below.
After your done laying it down and the backing is peeled off..take a straight edge along the inside of that radius and cut it ( this is assuming that is still a one piece graphic on the side ).

Hope Im explaining this well enough .

There are other tricks on this graphic..but Im afraid I will confuse you more then help you .

YD.

 

[bedwards36426]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

Good morning Bedwards .

I would like to add a few things to all of the great suggestions posted as I have done a few of these on SeaRayders.

First thing .. Wash your boat well ( especially the rub rail area ).

I personally like to acetone wipe the area before application.
I like the hair dryer method on the large Graphic.
Being such a large graphic I suggest doing this with another person on hand. ( one person holds the graphic while the second person peels and lays down ).
That particular graphic lays over a 'character' line that is a real pita! Try to position and lay in that Radius before placing the rest above or below.
After your done laying it down and the backing is peeled off..take a straight edge along the inside of that radius and cut it ( this is assuming that is still a one piece graphic on the side ).

Hope Im explaining this well enough .

There are other tricks on this graphic..but Im afraid I will confuse you more then help you .

YD.

Thanks. Yes the big one is still one piece. That is a good idea to cut it up under that lip. Any more suggestions you have I'll take gladly. That is the only one that's gonna be a pain. It's huge!!!

 

[Yacht Dr.]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

Thanks. Yes the big one is still one piece. That is a good idea to cut it up under that lip. Any more suggestions you have I'll take gladly. That is the only one that's gonna be a pain. It's huge!!!

I know lol ..

If it was a simple 'large graphic' on the side I probably would not have chimed in .. but that rayder graphic is a ***** with the character/radius line ...

Tape it up just how it was described before in the post ^^ up there .. Keep Everything WET WET WET.

You cannot move the Graphic around too much once you have the Radius placed .. its a do or dont after that..

You only have ONE chance at this with your graphics when it hits that Radius .. it will move to its Own placement .. or you Will wrinkle it !. That Radi will determine your placement of the upper and lower of that Big graphic piece ..

I suggest you cut off All of the 'bulk' ..lay down your lines .. tape it up..cut the 'Radius' and do it in two steps .. one on bottom .. then match the other above the Radi and apply that one secondly ..

Do Not try this in ONE whole graphic application ! .. you can always cut the rub rail graphic part of it to match the 'above' rub rail in one small step.

I have come close to mastering the application of the older SeaRayder one piece graphic ..its just too freaking hard to do it on a One time thing ..

YD.

 

[bedwards36426]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

I know lol ..

If it was a simple 'large graphic' on the side I probably would not have chimed in .. but that rayder graphic is a ***** with the character/radius line ...

Tape it up just how it was described before in the post ^^ up there .. Keep Everything WET WET WET.
You cannot move the Graphic around too much once you have the Radius placed .. its a do or dont after that..

You only have ONE chance at this with your graphics when it hits that Radius .. it will move to its Own placement .. or you Will wrinkle it !. That Radi will determine your placement of the upper and lower of that Big graphic piece ..

I suggest you cut off All of the 'bulk' ..lay down your lines .. tape it up..cut the 'Radius' and do it in two steps .. one on bottom .. then match the other above the Radi and apply that one secondly ..

Do Not try this in ONE whole graphic application ! .. you can always cut the rub rail graphic part of it to match the 'above' rub rail in one small step.

I have come close to mastering the application of the older SeaRayder one piece graphic ..its just too freaking hard to do it on a One time thing ..

YD.

You can say that again!!! I wonder about the strength of the adhesive after 18 or so years. They seem to be grade A!! Which is good. The wetness of the water solution kind of like tint, or a zagg shield of my iPhone. It doesn't effect the strength of the adhesive backing?? Or does it by chance make it any stronger??? You are right hard to master the first time, but this Pack was very expensive. As far as I know I've got the only one that was out there. Lucky Me!! But oh the pressure to get this right. Hey thanks for your knowledge. Let me know about the water solution.

 

[Yacht Dr.]

Re: Sea Rayder Decal Removal Any Tricks???

The wetness of the water solution kind of like tint, or a zagg shield of my iPhone. It doesn't effect the strength of the adhesive backing?? Or does it by chance make it any stronger???

You apply the graphic just like window tint. Make sure you dont lay down unless its WET.

It will not affect the strength of the adhesive.

I personally like to use windex..but the water solution will work.

Also it helps sometimes to wet out the cover paper after you lay down. Do not try to peel up the cover paper too soon or you will lift your graphic up.

OH..one more thing I like to do is trim off the bulk of the excess from the around graphic before positioning and laying down.

Take your time and keep it wet .. Good luck.

YD.