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View Full Version : Removing hardened tree sap?

BlackenedRR
03-02-2010, 07:56 PM
Ok, so the guy I bought my truck from let tree sap just sit forever on the paint. I got it all off the aluminum fuel cell in the bed, using a drywall sanding sponge. I'd REALLY like to not use it on the paint though... LOL!!! Any tried and true techniques for doing it at home? If worst comes to worst, I will sand it down and just have the whole truck cleared again I guess.
elitecustombody
03-02-2010, 08:03 PM
Lacquer thinner on soft cloth wipes it off in few wipes,just don't scrub or keep the cloth on paint longer than few seconds at a time
HRBS
03-02-2010, 08:08 PM
Apply even heat (not direct heat) from a small household soldering torch from about 10" away. Once it gets soft use a product called Goof Off. You should be able to find it at any Lowes Home Improvement store. Its extremely safe on all finishes and wipes off very easily.
BlackenedRR
03-02-2010, 08:09 PM
Thanks Stefan, I'll give it a try tomorrow.:cheers:


Here's what I'm dealing with. Basically every surface of the truck facing up looks like this, so I've got my work cut out for me...
http://i438.photobucket.com/albums/qq110/BlackenedRR/DSC00246.jpg
http://i438.photobucket.com/albums/qq110/BlackenedRR/DSC00247.jpg
BlackenedRR
03-02-2010, 08:12 PM
Apply even heat (not direct heat) from a small household soldering torch from about 10" away. Once it gets soft use a product called Goof Off. You should be able to find it at any Lowes Home Improvement store. Its extremely safe on all finishes and wipes off very easily.Ahhh, more ideas!! This is why I love lat-g! Well I'll keep it updated on who's idea I used to get it all off, guess I'll owe that person a case of their favorite beverage!
djorgensen3
03-02-2010, 09:29 PM
Try some goof off or goo gone. They are in an orange bottle. I had an issue with wind noise on my z71 and my shop left duct tape across the top of windshield weather stripping and I didn't notice it for a week (it was a troubleshooting technique I guess). I know I should have noticed it sooner....duh. Anyway I used some of this and the duct tape goo just wiped off in one pass. It may take you a little elbow work but it won't damage the paint I don't think. Give it a try...it's cheap enough.
Mkelcy
03-02-2010, 09:40 PM
What you've got is resin. Soldering flux is resin. Get some soldering flux remover and what you've got will wipe off like magic. Ask me how I know.
BlackenedRR
03-02-2010, 09:42 PM
I'm game Mike, how do ya know?:D
Mkelcy
03-02-2010, 09:52 PM
Pine trees in the yard; Camaro in the yard.

By the way, you might try washing that poor truck before using the flux remover.:yes:
BlackenedRR
03-03-2010, 07:53 AM
Ahhh, that poor Camaro!! Well my new fuel cell should be here Friday, as soon as it's in I'm gonna take this dirty beast down the street to the car wash and get at it with some real pressured water. I already sprayed it down with the hose here at home, so most of the bird bombs and dust are gone now.
tones2SS
03-03-2010, 08:50 AM
How about a clay bar?!
I've used a similar product to a clay bar for road tar and it worked great. Here is a link to the stuff, expensive, but the best out there, in my opinion. Actually, this stuff works like a clay bar, but is 100 times easier. GOOD LUCK!!:thumbsup:
http://www.autopia-carcare.com/ult-3200-3322.html
elitecustombody
03-03-2010, 01:45 PM
make sure to wash the truck first,

tone2SS, claybar will not work on chunks of sap ,it's made to remove small particles.
NsaneHotrodz
03-03-2010, 03:44 PM
Wash it real good, then try a clay bar or a little bit of reducer.:thumbsup: the big chunks should come off when you wash it. If that doesn't work try a sandblaster:rolleyes:
Northeast Rod Run
03-03-2010, 07:14 PM
I've used Goo Gone, Goof Off, and kerosene with great results in the past. I've also heard WD-40 works great but I've never used it
70rs
03-13-2010, 02:52 PM
80 grit. Sap all gone. :D
70 chevelle
03-15-2010, 05:45 AM
Try turtle wax bug and tar remover. I've had pretty good luck with it. WD-40 on a clean rag does wonders also.
Northeast Rod Run
03-18-2010, 05:50 PM
80 grit. Sap all gone. :D
I'll have to try to remember that next time i get some stuck on my car:unibrow:
70rs
03-20-2010, 12:54 AM
I'll have to try to remember that next time i get some stuck on my car:unibrow:

What? It works!:D Now if you want to keep any paint on the car I do not suggest you listen to me. Ever.:_paranoid