get tape off of a guitar?

Question

The guitar is my grandpas and I decided to take it and clean it up but theres tape on some parts of it. Any suggestion of how I might be able to get the tape off without damaging the guitar?

Thanks

The tapes been on it for a long time so it really hard to get it off

Answer 1

Try using a little oil on the sticky parts and let it soak for an hour or better yet all night. It won't harm the finish, then use a soft cloth to remove the oil and glue residue. I do this on lots of items and find it is safe. I use olive oil or mineral oil. I have used lighter fluid as well, but mostly on glass or vinyl, I dont know about the painted surface with lighter fluid. It is a good dissolver of glue, that is for sure.

Answer 2

Citrisolv might do it without marring the varnish.

Florists use a spray product called "Mess Master"; made by the Design Master people. It's a gentle solvent that does a great job removing label adhesive. Should be able to find a can at a craft or florist supply store.

I'd be very careful with stuff like "Goof Off" - it's actually designed to lift paint and may be hard on the finish.

Answer 3

Hi there, I would try a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol on it not to wet but you can try this a bit at a time a clean cloth to clean it off with. This or vinegar is what I use to take it off or even nail polish remover but watch that you don`t use to much if you have a painted area to clean. Try a spot on your guitar that you won`t notice and you cannot practise o. Good luck.

Answer 4

electric or acoustic? try softening the old tape adhesive with furniture polish like Old English. it will take some time but it shouldn't damage the guitar

Answer 5

WD-40 is an excellent adhesive remover and doesnt damage lacquer.
Lighter fluid will dissolve some lacquers.

Answer 6

Try WD-40

Answer 7

use lighter fluid.

Answer 8

Well u could start by pulling it off!!!!!!!!!!!!!!