How to Remove Automotive 3M Mounting Tape

That spongy, white mounting tape made by 3M is a very handy and versatile item to have around the home or workplace. Just a quick peel-and-stick, and you can have an item mounted in no time. Removing the mounting tape however, is another story. What you need is a proven method for getting off the tape and the residue it leaves behind.

Things You'll Need

• 30 lb. test fishing line
• 3M adhesive and wax remover
• Rags

Instructions

1. Cut a short piece of the fishing line, and wrap it around your index fingers on both of your hands, just as if you were going to floss your teeth with it.

2. Press your fingers up against the surface on either side and on the top side of the tape. Work the line down into the tape, as close as you can to the surface it is mounted on.

3. Use a back and forth motion with your fingers to cut through the tape until it comes off; again, like you are flossing.

4. Spray the 3M adhesive remover (it was designed for just this kind of work) onto the remnants of tape and adhesive that were left behind after Step 3.

5. Add more 3M remover to a rag and scrub off the residue. It will take some elbow grease and applying more remover, but this process will get the mounting tape off.

Tips & Warnings

• The 3M adhesive and wax remover can damage painted surfaces; use it on a test area first.

References

• Removing Those Pesky 3M-tape Pieces

Resources

• 3M Adhesive and Wax Remover