Removing and re-applying hull-side "GRADY-WHITE" name plates

[daviehoya]

Has anyone tried removing (without damaging the letters or the gelcoat) and later reapplying the "GRADY-WHITE" name plates on the hull sides? I'm finally getting my 2012 Fisherman 209 wet-sanded (previous owners let her get pretty beat-up) and the guy doing the work won't be able to sand the gaps in the lettering, so ghosting there seems inevitable. My OCD has an issue with this. I've heard that pulling floss through the adhesive should work. Thanks for any tips!

 

[Hookup1]

I'me in the middle of doing a make-over on my 1997 Islander 268. Post are here on GG site under HOOKUP1. Look at GemLux Rigger Bases. One of the projects was repainting the hull. While I did a full hull AwlCraft 2000 in a new color re-paint the issues are the same.

The GW logo can be removed (it's trash but replaceable from dealer) carefully with a razor scraper. Be careful not to gouge the gelcoat. 3M makes a adhesive remover that can help.

The vinyl side hull stripe is a PITA. If you are not careful you will dig up the curved portion. There is a 3M wheel that I did not try but it is recommended.

After priming the old boat name (about 6' long) printed thru the primer on the sand before paint. I had to re-sand and re-prime. The old gelcoat erodes away and name vinyl/glue protects the gelcoat underneath the name. You can feel the edge with your finger. You really have to sand aggressively to take it down level and then polish out.

 

[Hookup1]

Another tip is the automotive paint guys use a dry trace coat power that you wipe on the surface. It will help to find defects in the surface while sanding.

I agree completely that the right way is to remove the GW logo. I would replace it though. A new GW logo is about $100 from a dealer. It’s not worth the time to save it. Just measure where it is before removing to reduce drama when re-installing.

 

[wrxhoon]

Remove the old ones and replace with new, that's the best . You can apply heat for easy removal, if you don't have a temp controller on your heat gun use a household electric heater or a hair dryer. Before removal use cardboard to make a template to install the new ones on the same spot.

 

[Fishtales]

I've never seen them re-used. I'd look into a robust cheese slicer or the like. I had my PPF applied and they used a fishing line to cut the adhesive/backing and were able to re-use them. If you can find a robust cutter, you may be able to use this in addition to the razor to work them off.

 

[DennisG01]

Has anyone tried removing (without damaging the letters or the gelcoat) and later reapplying the "GRADY-WHITE" name plates on the hull sides? I'm finally getting my 2012 Fisherman 209 wet-sanded (previous owners let her get pretty beat-up) and the guy doing the work won't be able to sand the gaps in the lettering, so ghosting there seems inevitable. My OCD has an issue with this. I've heard that pulling floss through the adhesive should work. Thanks for any tips!

That isn't "ghosting". Ghosting is the difference in color between the hull and the area UNDERNEATH the removed leterring/striping. You/he could sand up to the lettering and around though and probably do a pretty decent job and even get somewhat in between the lettering. You wouldn't need to get inside the "a", though, for example. The extremely slight color difference won't be noticeable.

But if it was me, I'd just remove them and get new ones. It will take way too much time to try and remove them carefully and even MORE time trying to get them back on straight/lined up to each other. In fact, pretty much near impossible. They get put on as a set, not indivually.

Heat 'em up and use a plastic scraper. Then acetone/paint thinner/goo gone/goof off/whatever (they all work) for the residue.

 

[Ryhlick]

Like others have said, use a heat gun and remove the letters or stripe. Then wipe down with acetone, I did mine this spring and it turned out great. I ordered a new logo and striping from the dealer and my 2000 looks new.

 

[Ky Grady]

Same here, I went new after removing for sanding and buffing. Upgrade to the new style from old also. Very happy with the fresh look.
Old is top pic.

 

[daviehoya]

Thank you, all. Yes, going with the new style and replacing everything. If only the local dealer parts person will call me back

 

[Hookup1]

Thank you, all. Yes, going with the new style and replacing everything. If only the local dealer parts person will call me back

Try Caribe in Islamorada.

 

[Ekea]

ky, that looks great

 

[Ky Grady]

ky, that looks great

Thanks