pogi69x said:
Is there anything behind the badge? Cause I'm thinking of debadging also but is there anything you need to fill behind it.
Behind the badges is double sided tape - the stronger automotive type. No guide holes in the sheet metal, just the tape.
Here's how to remove your badges in a nutshell:
1-Take your time and don't rush it. You'll be happier with the results. And don't trim your fingernails for a few days before debadging - more on this later.
2-Heat up your badges with a heat gun. Harbor freight Tools has one for cheap if you don't have one, or ask your buddy. Do not use your wife's blow dryer. Use common sense here and don't overheat - you don't want to damage your paint. If the badges are too warm to touch, you're heating them too much. Avoid pointing the gun at one spot, go back and forth, back and forth, you get the idea. You could also wait for summer and let the sun heat your badges on a hot day, though the heat gun works best IMO.
3-Saw between the badge and the tape (not between the tape and the paint) with some fishing line. If the line is snapping easily, get some heavier line. The badges should come off easily when you get all the way through the tape. Lift the badges straight off, don't peel them off as the edge of the badge can dig in to your clear coat and leave a mark.
4-With the badge removed and the tape revealed, heat the tape up again, and try to peel it off with your fingernails. I prefer using fingernails as opposed to a scraper or other tool as it's easier to make sure you're not damaging your clear coat. Sometimes the tape will peel off easily, leaving only a little adhesive residue, other times it will be stubborn and require more help. The heat can really help on this step, it softens the tape and allows it to release easier. The longer your badges have been on your vehicle, the more stubborn they are likely to be. Debadging when new is ideal.
5-Use Goo-B-Gone, Goof Off, Oops!, or any similar adhesive remover to get rid of what's left. Let it soak in to do it's work. Once the adhesive is all gone, wash and wax.
6-Step back and enjoy how clean your truck looks without so many badges. Then be prepared to help your buddy remove his once he sees how good your truck looks.
