Decal removal, the best way?

[Canuk]

I've just picked up this nice little 60's Bertin with the Nervex lugs for a good price. The paint is generally good but some of the decals are worn out.

What's the best way to remove them without damaging the original paintwork underneath?

 

[TreaderSteve]

Head above parapet: don't! They look fine to me - shows the age - in a nice way.
Don't quote me on this but If they're not clear-coated a gentle hairdryering should get the adhesive all agitated assuming they're not waterslide decals. Dunno how they come off other than pick at them

 

[Tootyred]

Hair dryer. Just heat them up a bit to loosen the glue.

 

[Canuk]

Going by the age of the frame they're probably water slide decals. I've just ordered a full set, including the Bertin decals.. You can't really see in these photos but it's got some lovely box lining on the top tube and stays

 

[TreaderSteve]

Aren't waterslides generally varnished? Picking at them might be the only option? We can just make out the box lining - that's pretty neat, plus the seat stay endcaps are cool

 

[Canuk]

Aren't waterslides generally varnished? Picking at them might be the only option? We can just make out the box lining - that's pretty neat, plus the seat stay endcaps are cool

I think they've deteriorated to such a state most of the original varnish is gone, I've tried rubbing them with a wet cloth but they seem pretty determined to stay on there.

I got this with a job lot including a knackered Bianchi and a PX10. But really I bought it to go with this jersey which I've kept hidden away for a good while now. Same colours and everything!

 

[chickendrumsticks]

I think they've deteriorated to such a state most of the original varnish is gone, I've tried rubbing them with a wet cloth but they seem pretty determined to stay on there.

I got this with a job lot including a knackered Bianchi and a PX10. But really I bought it to go with this jersey which I've kept hidden away for a good while now. Same colours and everything!

Gentle heat and a gentle pick with a plastic "razor blade". Worked for me. Note the gentle emphasis...

 

[Y282]

Plastic razor blades and mild heat for stickers. Glue best removed with GooGone for me. Water slides similar then super fine polish if there's a lacquer edge left.

 

[Canuk]

Plastic razor blades and mild heat for stickers. Glue best removed with GooGone for me. Water slides similar then super fine polish if there's a lacquer edge left.

Thanks, I'll give that a whack tonight when I get home from work.