How to Physically Un-Install a Tracker
The following are best practices for physically uninstalling and removing a tracker from an asset.
Important! We strongly recommend that Tenna hardware only be installed and uninstalled from an asset by a qualified mechanic. For more information on our Mechanic Certification Program, contact your Tenna account representative.
In this article:
Unassign the Tracker from the Asset in Tenna
Unassign the Tracker from the Asset in Tenna
Before physically removing a tracker from an asset, we recommend that you unassign the tracker from the asset in Tenna.
View How to Assign/Un-Assign a Tracker to an Asset (App) to complete that step first.
Physically Remove the Tracker by Tracker Type
The following are recommendations based on the type of tracker you are removing:
Wired Trackers
Any trackers that are wired to the asset.
This includes: TennaCAM, TennaCANbus, TennaFLEET, TennaINTEL P1, TennaMINI (Plug-In versions)
- 1
- Ensure the asset's ignition is off.
- 2
- Carefully cut any zip ties used to secure cables.
- 3
- Remove from ignition, ground, or power sources (if applicable).
- 4
- Unplug all cables and store for future use.
Refer to the tracker’s installation manual to ensure all associated cables and accessories are removed.
To remove the tracker, follow the instructions based on how it was adhered to the asset in Physically Remove the Tracker by Installation Type.
Non-Wired Trackers
Any trackers that are not wired to the asset.
This includes: TennaBLE (all), TennaINTEL S1, TennaMINI (Battery or Solar versions), TennaQR
Being that no cables or wires are used in these installations, skip to the instructions based on how the tracker is adhered to the asset in Physically Remove the Tracker by Installation Type.
Physically Remove the Tracker by Installation Type
Tenna trackers are affixed to an asset using one of the following ways: magnets, rivets, screws, VHB tape, or welded.
Removing Magnets
- 1
- Pull the tracker away from the asset until the magnets release.
If installing to another asset, simply place the tracker on the asset using the existing magnets.
- 2
- If not installing on another asset, remove the magnets and store for future use.
Removing Rivets
- 1
- Use a 3/16" drill bit to drill into the center of the rivet, until the head of the rivet pops off.
Pro Tip! If the shaft of the rivet remains in the previously drilled hole, use a center punch to remove it.
Removing Screws
- 1
- Use the appropriate impact driver and bit to remove the screws used for installation.
Pro Tip! Store the screws for future installation of the tracker.
Removing VHB Tape
- 1
- With one hand, pull on the tracker to separate it from the asset.
Simultaneously, with the other hand, use a razor blade or putty knife to scrape the VHB tape as it is revealed.
Pro Tip! If you are removing from a painted surface, it is recommended to use a plastic scraping tool or chemical decal remover, as not to damage the asset.
- 2
- If VHB tape remains on the asset, carefully use the razor blade or putty knife to scrape it off.
- 3
- Use an acetone-based cleaner to remove any adhesive residue left.
Removing a Welded Tracker
- 1
- Remove the tracker's plastic housing from the steel housing using a screwdriver or spanner wrench.
Note: The TennaBLE Steel Puck tracker is not meant to be re-used. Removing the plastic housing and tracker from the steel housing will likely destroy the tracker. Discard once you have removed.
- 2
- Using an acetylene torch, cut the steel coupler weld material until it is flush to the surface of the metal it was welded onto.
- 3
- Use a grinder to smooth out the original surface.
- 4
- Prime and paint, if needed.
