Topic: 3M Edge Lok - Residue galore

[390Pony]

I just used some of the 3M blue edge lock painter's tape with horrible results. I painted some sections of engine bay with a low gloss rattle can black enamel. Upon removing the 3M tape, it left behind a ton of residue. The tape was on for about 24 hours. over paint allowed to cure for about 30 hours. I've never had an issue with the old reliable 3M blue tape. I was in a hurry last run through Lowe's and grabbed the "Edge Lock" 2093 style by mistake. Reading the label and website, shouldn't be a problem. I'm so peeved. I tried the website suggestions "citrus cleaner", "ammonia based cleaner" etc. to no avil. Rubbing with some force with a finger, you can see it smear if you will, so I know it's "on" the paint. I'm afraid to attack it as I don't want to ruin the underlying paint. What a bitch. Anyone have a suggestion on what to clean the residue off without damaging the paint? I'll never use this stuff again.

[e093116]

3M 08984

[bryancobb]

I'm THINKING that tape is for latex or oil house & trim paint, not for cars??

[cobrajetchris]

The tape sold at hardware stores is no good for cars. The solvents in automotive paint will eat it up and cause the glue to separate from the tape. 3M automotive tape is a good product and will not bleed through, it's expensive but it will stay on and not bleed. There are  other automotive grade brand tapes out there but be careful of the bargain brands as you may have the same results. As far as removing it without hurting the paint, an auto paint store sells products for that too as the above mentioned, however if the paint that is affected is fresh or a aerosol type it may eat into it. I have also had luck using WD40 to remove tape residue and it should not eat into the paint. Spray it on and let it sit for awhile to soften it up and remove with a soft cloth.

[tomtri66]

+1 on WD-40

[jmlay]

Googone

[jtfx6552]

The tape sold at hardware stores is no good for cars. The solvents in automotive paint will eat it up and cause the glue to separate from the tape. 3M automotive tape is a good product and will not bleed through, it's expensive but it will stay on and not bleed. There are  other automotive grade brand tapes out there but be careful of the bargain brands as you may have the same results. As far as removing it without hurting the paint, an auto paint store sells products for that too as the above mentioned, however if the paint that is affected is fresh or a aerosol type it may eat into it. I have also had luck using WD40 to remove tape residue and it should not eat into the paint. Spray it on and let it sit for awhile to soften it up and remove with a soft cloth.

I'd stay away from using WD40 if there is any other painting left to be done on the car ( to avoid potential "fish eyes").

[Bob Gaines]

I'd stay away from using WD40 if there is any other painting left to be done on the car ( to avoid potential "fish eyes").

+1 . your paint man will kill you if he knows you have the WD40 anywhere near the paint. It can last in the paint for a long time(years?).