Help with removal of this stuff

T

tdowns187

New member
My brother who isn't a detailing enthusiast, sent me this picture of a hard foam like substance that he picked up on his black Audi A8L yesterday.  He noticed it right away, and immediately went to a car wash, not sure if it was a spray only or one with agitating & scratching :) brushes.  These pictures are after the wash.  He states the substance can be picked off with finger nail with some success, but leaves a film after removal.  He tried a bit of bug and tar remover with minimal success although I'm not sure how much effort he out into it.


 


I'm writing to get advice on what product to use / or step to perform next.  Something that can be sprayed on or dabbed on to facilitate wiping / washing off the substance.  I was thinking IPA or rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone.  Eventually it'll need to be clayed, but I think some of the gross contamination needs to be removed first.  


[attachment=9899:IMG_1881.jpeg]


 


 


Thanks for your input
 
I'm no expert, but I think I'd start with clay; then maybe some mineral spirits?


 


Not knowing the substance, I've found that chemicals can sometimes make a mess and just spread residue.
 
i agree with trying clay first, but from the photo, it looks a lot like "great stuff" expansion foam, which is serious stuff. If clay doesnt remove it, I would suggest Xylene. Just be careful with it and dont allow it to dry on the surface. 
 
I'm a big fan of a product called Contractor's Solvent - available here at Ace Hardware.  The reason I like it is because of the safety warning.  It reads something like this:  For exposure to skin or hair, wash off.  If it makes your skin dry - use lotion.  It works on most things and I still have other chemicals available for when it doesn't but this is my go to product.


 


In this case though, I think picking the stuff off followed by a light polish is the way to go.  Clay with soapy water might make it faster but by the time the guy drives to the store, he could be finished anyway.


 


Robert
 
Agree with others, start with clay. I also like 3M Adhesive remover, Stoners Tarminator, Prep Sol and IPA. I usually spray on a MF towel and then place it over the affected area and hold it there for a few seconds. Then try an gently remove the gunk. If that doesn't work I will spray on the affected area but in a cool, dry. shady spot and let it sit for a few seconds and then try and remove.
 
3M Adhes. Remover == Xylene.  Its the main ingredient in all those solvent based cleaners. Cheaper if you just buy it straight. just a thought..
 
Xylene does work quite well as a tar and adhesive remover. Its a main ingredient in most tar and adhesive removers. 
 
The Xylene content in 3M Adhesive Remover is relatively safe due to its dilution - if clay doesn't remove the contaminant try 3M's
 
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