I have Stack Racing chrome trim rings on my tail lights and would like to replace them with black trim. Suggestions would be appreciated on the best way to remove the existing rings, especially from those who have done it?

 

Fishing line, start on the edges (corner) and slip it under.. work it back and forth between your hands to saw at the tape. For the center pieces once you get the edges off, you should be able to lift it enough to sneak the line under.

 

Even letting the lights sit in the sun and get hot will help "soften" the adheasive on the tape. I have always found a little heat helps when removing emblems and such, you could even try a hair dryer. Just don't get too carried away with too much heat.

 

Thanks. 40lb fishing line was my plan, but I like the idea of a little heat to soften things up a bit. Ok, what do you suggest I use to remove the residual tape/gum from the tail lights after the trim is removed? I need a solvent (whatever) that will remove the gum without melting the plastic.

 

That will be the challange, maybe talk to a local body shop or body shop supplier, they may know of something. If not try giving 3M a call, their tech people are pretty good and may have an idea for you. I know googone works well but I'm pretty sure it will cloud the plastic. You could always try a headlamp cleaner/wax for plastic. That may help disolve some of it while also removing scratches in the lens. Heat will also work for this, with heat and time you may be able to get most of it off.

 

 

GOO GONE