Removing graphics from a stem?

I've got a Deda Magic 1 1/8 threadless stem. The graphics appear to be paint, but I'm not sure. Is
there a way to remove the graphics without ruining the remainder of the matte black finish? The
reason I might consider this is that without the graphics, which are in "one direction" only, the
stem would be flip-flopable.

Thanks, Wayne

"Wayne Pein" <wpein@nc.rr.com> wrote in message = news:3F7DABB8.6E8EF94F@nc.rr.com...
| I've got a Deda Magic 1 1/8 threadless stem. The graphics appear to be paint, but I'm not sure. Is
| there a way to remove the graphics without ruining the remainder of the matte black finish? The
| reason I might consider this is that without the graphics, which are in "one =
direction"
| only, the stem would be flip-flopable.

Hi Wayne. Of course you can flip it anyway, just have to stand on your = head to read the graphics!
:-) I'd try dabbing it with various = solvents, just a teeny bit on an area on the 'new; underside
or = something. Things I'd try are Acetone (nail polish remove) Paint thinner Sticker/decal remover.

What's with the threadless stem? Are you replacing your Rivendale?

Why don't you flip it over anyways? Would look good if you endo'ed ... reminds me of the Suzuki
Samurai trucks, when owners would put their bumper stickers on upside down for just that purpose.

Seriously, I would try mild solvents first, applied only to that part you want removed with a Q Tip.
I've done this before, but unfortunately it doesn't always come out right. What happens often is
that the area in which the graphics are removed looks different ... different texture, solvent
reacts with color or what have you (i.e. looks hack). Myself, when I want to do something like this,
I end up either buying a new part, or completely refinishing the old part. It's usually the only way
a satisfactory result can be achieved.

C.Q.C.

"Wayne Pein" <wpein@nc.rr.com> wrote in message news:3F7DABB8.6E8EF94F@nc.rr.com...
> I've got a Deda Magic 1 1/8 threadless stem. The graphics appear to be paint, but I'm not sure. Is
> there a way to remove the graphics without ruining the remainder of the matte black finish? The
> reason I might consider this is that without the graphics, which are in "one direction" only, the
> stem would be flip-flopable.
>
> Thanks, Wayne

A Dremel with the buffing attachment will take that right off. Just take your time and it will
slowly wear it off. Too much pressure will cause heat and slightly mar the finish. Concentrate on a
tiny spot to get a feel for what's involved and then do the rest. Only use the material buffer, no
polish/wax. I've done this several times with perfect results.

Dave

onefred wrote:

> A Dremel with the buffing attachment will take that right off. Just take your time and it will
> slowly wear it off. Too much pressure will cause heat and slightly mar the finish. Concentrate on
> a tiny spot to get a feel for what's involved and then do the rest. Only use the material buffer,
> no polish/wax. I've done this several times with perfect results.
>
> Dave

I've got a Dremel, so I may try this.

Thanks, Wayne