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Plexiglass cleaning

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Old Apr 3, 2008 | 11:03 PM
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Default Plexiglass cleaning

I've got new hardtop plexiglass windows which have a protective plastic film/cover covering them. Evidently they've been sitting around for quite some time and the film is stuck to the windows to the point that it will only come off in tiny bits and pieces. Looking for ideas on how to get the film remnants off without damaging or scratching the plexiglass. Are their safe chemicals that will work or will plastic scrub brushes be ok to use?
Thanks
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Old Apr 4, 2008 | 06:14 AM
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Originally Posted by gphil460
I've got new hardtop plexiglass windows which have a protective plastic film/cover covering them. Evidently they've been sitting around for quite some time and the film is stuck to the windows to the point that it will only come off in tiny bits and pieces. Looking for ideas on how to get the film remnants off without damaging or scratching the plexiglass. Are their safe chemicals that will work or will plastic scrub brushes be ok to use?
Thanks
I'd be tempted to try a hair dryer on a low heat setting to see if the film might loosen up before chemical warfare. Any type of scrubbing will put scratches in the plexi in my experience.
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Old Apr 4, 2008 | 06:35 AM
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I'm not sure if this will work but I use WD 40 regularly to take off glued/ sticky items. WD 40 shouldn't hurt anything.
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Old Apr 4, 2008 | 07:08 AM
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I would call the people you purchased the new plexiglass from and make them aware of the problem.
Maybe thay came across this before.
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Old Apr 4, 2008 | 09:59 AM
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Default 3m

You may want to try 3M adhesive remover. I used it to remove adhesive accidently sprayed on my NSX. It removed the adhesive and did not harm the finish of the car. Of course try it on a small inconspicuous place first. Jerry
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Old Apr 4, 2008 | 10:08 AM
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Bestine is an old product that works great, it may not be made anymore due to the use of benzine. Sold at art supply stores (test in a small area to be sure there is no reaction)

Frey's I'm sure sells a techie product that does the same thing.
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Old Apr 6, 2008 | 11:42 PM
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Thanks everyone for the suggestions. I haven't yet been able to find the 3m adhesive remover or the Bestine. Haven't had much time to spend on it yet but so far I've figured out WD40 doesn't work. The heat gun shows some promise. I have to heat small area up pretty good and then use a plastic scraper to remove the film. I'm hoping the plastic scraper doesn't scratch the glass. Plaidside, thanks for for the suggestion but I purchased the windows (and disassembled top) from an individual who had purchased the parts 3 or 4 yrs ago and never got around to finishing the project so going back to mfg for relief is a bit out of the question) .
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Old Apr 7, 2008 | 04:57 PM
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E-mail Ted at tpkflying@msn.com Ted owns the Hardtop shop in PA. good guy and knows his business. he sometimes takes a while to get back.
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Default I Would Be Very Careful With The 3M Adhesive Remover.....

It's mostly designed to remove road tar and weather stripping adhesives off of painted surfaces. I would try a small spot that is not easy to see before using it on the rest of the plexiglas.
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