How to Remove Carpet Adhesive from Plastic

W Tasker asked: How can I remove old carpet glue from a plastic composite dashboard? I have a vintage motor, which had carpet stuck to the dash. It has been removed, but has left a lot of brown streaky residue. I have tried evostic solvent, nail polish remover, thinners, petrol bleach and dashboard cleaner with no success. What do you suggest? The dashboard is too big to remove, and we cannot find a replacement. If too much thinner is applied, the plastic will soften, but does not remove the glue. It made a big mess when we tried it on a small corner. What do you suggest?

You Will Need:

• Peel Away 5
• Acetone
• Adhesive Remover (consult your local home improvement store for the strongest, safest options available)

Steps to Remove the Adhesive:

1. Each individual product will have its own application and removal procedures. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
2. Since the adhesive is on a plastic surface, additional measures will help to increase success.
3. Many removers will dissolve plastic along with the adhesive. To avoid this damage cover the areas around the adhesive with a protective layer. This will prevent the unaffected areas from becoming damaged.
4. If the remover is one that quickly evaporates (such as acetone), it may be evaporating before the product has sufficient time to work.
5. To resolve this, moisten a stack of paper toweling or a soft cloth with the removal product. Lay the wet towel over the area and cover with plastic wrap. Tape the edges down to keep it from evaporating.
6. Allow the solution to set on the glue until it has a chance to soften, the scrape it away with a scraper.
7. It will often take several efforts and plenty of elbow grease to remove all of the glue, but it can be done.

• Always test a small, hidden area first to ensure there are no adverse effects to the area.