What are the differances in using a heat gun vs. a torch??

June 21, 2011

I am looking to find the fastest way to shrink a back window on most cars. i have found that with the torch, this can supposedly be done within a couple of mins at most. Is there certain films you can use? or does this work with all?

Porsche951 · June 21, 2011

I am looking to find the fastest way to shrink a back window on most cars. i have found that with the torch, this can supposedly be done within a couple of mins at most. Is there certain films you can use? or does this work with all?

I've never used a torch, but with the concentrated heat it would have to go super fast, but im sure it takes tons of practice. The risk of burning the film would be much higher I would think as well (not to mention your hand.... :lol2 ) I would imagine it would work with any decent quality film.

June 21, 2011

I am looking to find the fastest way to shrink a back window on most cars. i have found that with the torch, this can supposedly be done within a couple of mins at most. Is there certain films you can use? or does this work with all?

you can shrink most with a heat gun within a few minutes

June 22, 2011

i would like to test out shrinking with a torch, but i have visions of me burning a b/g rubber or burning off the paint work :thumb for now iam happy with my heat gun

The ///Man · June 22, 2011

Fastest shrink? Use a film that shrinks easier, it's faster than the difference you will see between a heat gun and a torch. I learned to shrink with a torch, I prefer a heat gun and a good film.

Fiveofeen · June 22, 2011

I would suggest against a torch for many reasons.

It can distort the film, you are putting too much heat on the film in a concentrated area which could cause premature failure and then there is the open flame factor. Not many clients like to see their car being cooked by a torch.

Like others suggested pick a film that shrinks faster or charge more so you don't need to get cars out so quickly.

coast2coasttinting · June 22, 2011

I'm with you guys the torch shrink looks cool, but I'm chicken chit to try it on a custy's car. :beer

June 22, 2011

I'm with you guys the torch shrink looks cool, but I'm chicken chit to try it on a custy's car.

I think you all are right... but look at the video on youtube... the guy tests the difference in temperature of the back window... the torch makes the back window only 95 or 96 degrees... but with the heat gun the back window is 100 degrees hotter.

so with a good hand i think that this might be the best way... just more concentrated heat in one area... i think it would just take a quick hand.

Do you all think that it would be a good match for the 3M film... this is what i am currently working with. :beer

fji79 · June 22, 2011

3M Fx Premium series shrinks very easy , so far is the easiest film to work with :beer

June 22, 2011

3M Fx Premium series shrinks very easy , so far is the easiest film to work with

Nice! i will have to order that.... but are you suggesting that with the torch or heat gun?

I am trying to master the torch... i think with the right communication and assurance with the customer... this can be a very impressive skill to show. I mean what wouldnt be impressive about shrinking a back window in less than a minute and a half???