Problem with my Pacifica (but not what you'll think!)

[puggy]

As mentioned in my previous post (amp conundrum) I recently purchased a second hand Yamaha Pacifica and I am really pleased with it.

However, I noticed that the pickguard was starting to bubble and realized the protective plastic film had never been removed, so I started to peel it off.

Big Mistake!

I don't know how many years the film has been on there but it is more or less welded on. I have managed to pick a tiny corner off a sliver at a time but now it just looks terrible with a nasty ragged edge. I don't want to try anything like a scraper or similar in case it scratches the plate. (I know that's what it is there for, but even so.....)

Any ideas anyone? A friend suggested a heatgun but I wonder if this would be too much.

Any suggestions gratefully received.

Thanks.

[pieterh]

In all honesty I wouldn’t let a heat gun anywhere near your guitar. It’s more likely to melt the finish and warp the pickguard.

I would suggest removing the whole thing and taking off all the hardware etc until you are just left with the pickguard itself. Then soak it in warm water, maybe with a dash of detergent to soften and loosen the protective plastic’s adhesive

[YamahaGuy]

From a UK seller on Ebay, cool after market replacements can be purchased for under $20.

[guitararmy]

I wonder if you used either naptha or Goo Gone on a rag as you pulled up the plastic film would get the residue off...I've also used WD-40 to get adhesive residue off.

[puggy]

Hmm, WD40, there's a thought, I'll have a go, thanks.