DIY - Removing painted pinstripes

I did this on my 2012 Taco. Not promoting Easy Off (heavy duty) and I do not take any responsibility for this, but here is how I removed the annoying dealer painted pinstripes.

Make certain to test an area that is not visible. I chose this "budget" method based on some research between this and the lacquer/paint thinner method. I looked in several different lighting angles and the oven cleaner method did not visibly affect the clear coat. I will advise beforehand not to leave the oven cleaner for an extended period of time.

Things you you will need-

- a few hundred q-tips (at least 100)
- Easy Off Oven Cleaner (heavy duty yellow can)
- bucket filled with water
- a cotton towel
- microfiber towel
- your choice of polishing compound
- your choice of wax

This works best if you have some sun since the oven cleaner works best with some heat. Expose your truck to a little sun so it's warm to the touch. Then, spray some oven cleaner in cap like so...
Apply solution to desired area
Let it sit for 1-2 minutes, get a new Q-Tip and rub the treated area with light pressure.


Get the wet towel out of the bucket of water and wipe down the treated area with generous amounts of water.
Dry with the microfiber towel and then admire your work.


Afterwards, let the truck cool and then use some polishing compound, then wax. NOTE: there may be some ghosting based on how long the pinstripes have been there.

Good luck! And I hope this helped.

 

Awesome. I have been thinking of doing this!