tree sap everywhere :O

numbness4sound · 07-14-2010, 09:32 AM

I made the horrible mistake of parking under a pine tree the other day, and now I have globs of pine pitch everywhere. I've been using a sponge with soap to try and get it off, but then it dries and I see there's still a ton left and I've actually spread it out more. Just wondering if anyone has found a good product or home remedy to get this crap off. I saw online that baby oil is supposed to work? Anyone tried it? I'm a bit wary of using a strong cleaning product, as last summer I used some brand of tar remover to get a big glob of tree sap off, and even though I cleaned the spot off afterwards it started eating through the paint!

IndyTom · 07-21-2010, 01:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by numbness4sound

I made the horrible mistake of parking under a pine tree the other day, and now I have globs of pine pitch everywhere. I've been using a sponge with soap to try and get it off, but then it dries and I see there's still a ton left and I've actually spread it out more. Just wondering if anyone has found a good product or home remedy to get this crap off. I saw online that baby oil is supposed to work? Anyone tried it? I'm a bit wary of using a strong cleaning product, as last summer I used some brand of tar remover to get a big glob of tree sap off, and even though I cleaned the spot off afterwards it started eating through the paint!

After you use Bug and Tar Remover or any strong cleaner like that make sure you rewax that portion of the car immediately to protect it.

I use McQuires Cleaner Wax. It goes on nice and easy and comes off the same way. It is totally safe for your clearcoat and it does take off excess
debris. You may have to use a little elbow grease but it will come off.
You can also get a Claybar kit and claybar the car. Make sure it is wet and stays wet while you use it and when you drop it throw it away. Even the slightest crap picked up from the ground can scratch your finish.

Good Luck!

Tom in Indy

Ehetleos · 07-21-2010, 08:39 AM

Diesel and parafine are the universal "andidotew" to tree sap, tar and the sort. Just wet a clean soft cloth with diesel or parafine and rub against the spots using circular movements. Wax the surface afterwards and you will be just fine.
Diesel or parafine will not destroy the paint-job of the car. Most market chemicals will, though...Oh, and diesel, as well as parafine, are a lot cheaper to buy.

mank · 07-21-2010, 10:29 AM

There is a product called Goo Gone that will remove that pine tar and it is safe for your finish. I have used it to take pine tar and gum that got all over the side of my car. I than washed, clayed, and waxed those areas.

Goo Gone Cleaners |

Cobb · 07-21-2010, 10:39 AM

I just use regular car wax and lots of elbow grease.

paulccsi · 07-22-2010, 10:04 PM

Been there, tried everything!! My Honda serviceman
suggested I try Isopropyl Alcohol. It worked like a charm.
That was a year ago.
Its A year later, and the finish still looks as good as new. With no ill effect from the alcohol.
Be sure to wash and wax the area thoroughly after using it.
DO NOT allow the sap to stay on the finish of your car for any amount of time. It "WILL" work its way into the paint, and you will never be able to remove the stain it leaves.