3M Leading Edge Tape

[docket]

I am generally knocking paint off the leading edge of the horizontal stabilizer.  I stay on top of it and touch it up regularly since I am the essence of Type "A" on the cosmetics.  I think the paint on my Eagle (which is a factory job) is simply just not up to snuff as I think the paint just falls off even in nothing more than moderate rain.  Unfortunately, and except for the leading edge, the paint job looks good so I am not yet ready to spring for a new paint job.  I have seen this 3M clear tape on a few planes and it may be the best solution for me.   Anyone tried it?  Also, anyone applied it themselves?  I am a pretty handy guy having applied tape stripes to cars and boats in the past so I expect that this is within my skill level.  Nevertheless, any tips, comments or concerns are appreciated.  N56FM

[DonMuncy]

When my plane was painted, they put it on my leading edges and it works great. Four years and still looks good.  I assume, but am not certain it is 3M.

Don

[Carl S]

Docket,

Did you wind up with the leading edge tape?  If so how did it work out?  If not have you come up with another solution to your leading edges?

[Cruiser]

At the MAPA convention we has a presentation by paint expert Teresa Venegas, owner of Art Craft. She said the biggest cause of paint chipping from the leading edge is bugs. Yes, bugs. She said their bodies are acidic and if left on the paint it softens it and will eventually come off.

Keep the bugs off and the paint will last longer!

[carusoam]

I have seen one mooney missile owner using 3M tape.  His thoughts were more towards use as an ice repellent.  His paint was not worth saving...

-a-

[rbridges]

I've applied the 3M material to several of my cars.  It works great to protect the paint, but I've heard people say that it ripped their paint (on their plane) when they removed it.  I wouldn't apply it unless my paint was in decent shape.

[OR75]

most of the paint off I have seen is near on LEFT wing root and on the left stabilizer

must have something to do with the prop wash ???

I used the tape at some point and it works great at protecting the surface. It is easy to apply but it is a struggle to cut and apply without leaving finger marks.

Also, you will need solvent when you want to remove it as it leaves hard to remove glue (kind of like duct tape)

 

  

 

 

[docket]

Quote: N223MM

Docket,

Did you wind up with the leading edge tape?  If so how did it work out?  If not have you come up with another solution to your leading edges?

[rbridges]

Quote: OR75

most of the paint off I have seen is near on LEFT wing root and on the left stabilizer

must have something to do with the prop wash ???

I used the tape at some point and it works great at protecting the surface. It is easy to apply but it is a struggle to cut and apply without leaving finger marks.

Also, you will need solvent when you want to remove it as it leaves hard to remove glue (kind of like duct tape)

 

  

 

 

[Carl S]

Thanks for the update and for the other input.  When I bought my J it already had some extensive leading edge paint flaking. I'd like to keep it from getting worse until I can spruce up the leading edges.

If I understand correctly, the tape may help to keep what I have but will involve a little effort and judicious chemical application when I am ready for touch up.

[rbridges]

It's not too hard to install, and if you use a hairdryer to warm it up, it shouldn't be too hard to remove.  Keep in mind, the film for cars is only recommended for 3-5 years.  If that stuff stays on long enough (especially if it's left in the sun and heat), it may be hard to lift.  If your paint is already beat up, I'd be leary to put the tape on it.  It may keep it from getting worse, but I'd fear that it would rip some paint off when it's removed down the road.