Masking tape removes paint.

[s-type]

Hi Guys.

Simple one for anyone who has been there.

I accept the cellulose paint on my classic (1971 DS420 Hearse) is not the best but its not falling off and looks line. However when I put masking tape on it and rip it off it takes the paint off, Not all of it, just bits.

From googling I can see the answers vary;

soak with water
heat it up
paraffin(!)

Can I ask what people here do?

[Maaarrghk]

Give us a bit more information if you can.

How long is the tape left on the car? I usually try to remove it as soon as I possibly can.

Are you sure that the areas you mention have not been "blown in" in the past? It could be that the preparation was not so good and the paint is not properly keyed to the primer/filler/rust/bodywork.

[m.thaddeus]

Hello There

This is not uncommon I am afraid. As a rule you dont leave the tape on any longer than you have to and you dont use 2" tape on panels if you can avoid it. And you dont let it get damp.
This said, if the paint is lifting then it has not stuck to the panel properly, which may be down to keying or moisture or heat or contamination issues.

I would be inclined to use some very gentle heat and try to lift the tape while holding it in place with one finger. The effect is to lift it straight up at one point only, -rather that pull it in such a way as to be tugging over a greater area.

Good luck.

[jimmyybob]

A bit pointless telling you now but you can buy 'low tack' masking tape....i think its the blue one.

[s-type]

Thanks guys,

Sorry the email notification is not bloody working. I'll get it sorted.

Unfortunately as i am working in the evenings when I can the tape needs to stay on for much longer than I would like.

I will try heat.... Right, back to sanding and re filling. I have done it about 100 times and its still not good enough... 4rse.