How to safely remove tape?

Dec 20, 2003 4 Replies

I wanted the Auto VentShades for my Explorer, so I went up to Pep Boys and bought some. They attached via "Strong & Durable 3M Adhesive Tape". After about a year of having them on, 3 of them were already coming off (still stuck to the shades, just unstuck from the windows). So, I removed them this past summer and had a hard time removing them, but at least I did get them off. I blame myself for this, I put them on a bit too early in the season when it was still a little cold. I recall reading it recommended a temperature LOW of the mid 70's...



Now, it's dead of Winter (highs only in the upper 40's so far). 2 of them have started to come off, except this time, the tape has stuck to the window, and the part that is coming off is the shade from the tape. So, I'm off to remove them again. (I won't buy anymore).



Now my question: I've removed the two on the driver's side, and much of the tape is being left on the door and is extremely hard to get off this time. I suspect it's something to do with the temperature :( I tried a hair dryer to heat the surface, and it helped somewhat, but not nearly enough.



Any thoughts on how I should continue? I thought I'd ask someone before I even attempted removal of the other two...



Thanks in advance, Tim


I'd start with a single-edge razor blade and finish up with 3M Adhesive Remover. As you noted, heat makes the job easier.

Thanks for the tip....

I got some of the adhesive remover, and it's still quite tough to get off... I'll never get these things again.

I've seen some other explorer's driving around with different style of ventshades... they aren't attached with this tape. I looked at 3 automotive stores today and none have this kind. All I can find is the same type that's attached with the 3M double-sided tape. I don't know if it's screwed in some how, or perhaps just fit up inside the window groves... not sure. Any thoughts?

Tim

Try this place. Nice protection, no tape or glue.

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look under products for WeatherFlectorsTM , Ithink you will like them. I bought back and front, if I was to do it againI think Id just go with the front, we really don't need the ventilation inthe rear seats.

R/Bill

Awesome! that's exactly what I've been looking for!

Thanks for the link!

Tim

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