How to remove Old Town decals prior to painting?

[pkostik]

My Old Town OTCA is 8 years old and has the large "Old Town" decals on either side below the gunwales. I need to paint and want to remove the decals without damaging the surface underneath. Can anyone suggest how to do this? Would using heat from a hair dryer or a heat gun very carefully, make it easier? Thanks.

 

[Mark Adams]

I'd use a hair drier. A heat gun is usually hotter than hell, and might cause other, more serious problems. ( blistered filler, paint, etc.) If you want to replace them, they are available here:

http://www.islandfallscanoe.com/old-town-canoe-materials-repairs.asp

HTH