Removing decals and numbers on aluminum boat

[Gumboot]

I'm sure it's been discussed before...but whats best way to remove old number on aluminum hull?  Heat, peel, goo gone?

[MrGiggles]

A heat gun will help release the adhesive and make it easier to peel them off. A razor blade makes for a good scraper but can scratch the aluminum underneath. 

Once they are off you can use whatever solvent you want to get the goo off. 3M adhesive remover aerosol works pretty good. It is not cheap but a can goes a long ways.

[Dutch]

WD 40 will work on the cleanup.

[Gumboot]

Thanks for replies.  Additionally, this is on a painted aluminum hull that I do not want to damage paint. 

I prefer to damage my paint while fishing.

[Dutch]

Just go slow and easy with the removal.  It will probably come off in pieces.

[Flysmallie]

1 hour ago, Gumboot said:

Thanks for replies.  Additionally, this is on a painted aluminum hull that I do not want to damage paint. 

I prefer to damage my paint while fishing.

Well then it get's a little tricky depending on the type of paint and how long the paint has been on there and how fresh it was when the decals were applied. Heat works but a heat gun is probably going to destroy the paint. Goo gone is probably not going to touch it. It will help remove any left over adhesive but again it could harm the paint. They make what's called an eraser wheel that you attach to a drill or DA that will remove decals from painted surfaces. But again if the paint is fresh or isn't adhered well to the substrate then it can do some damage. Your best bet is too see if you can just peel them off with a little heat. Sit it out in the sun awhile or use a hair dryer, NOT a heat gun.