removing bow rail
 

removing a bow rail off my 1998 21 SC .. its screw in and has 5200 or some other sealent ,its also non skid where its attached....not to concerned about filling the screw holes as much as pulling off the 5200 or getting it clean to patch the holes any ideas ..bow rail will be avail if anyone can use it

Joe R.
21 SeaCraft
1998
Susie II

SO WHAT IS BEST TO TAKE OFF OR CLEAN 5200 OFF NON SKID..?????..The screw holes I can fill with resin and try to match gel coat

Joe R.
21 SeaCraft
Susie II

Try DeBond

latex/nitrile/vinyl gloves, acetone and some elbow grease.
Gets the residue off pretty quick. Maybe some goof off to change it up if you like.

Also, a painter years ago taught me a trick about using a sharpened piece of plexiglass/lexan to scrape off old adhesives/vinyl lettering etc.
Cuts the goop off but wont scratch the gelcoat. Then clean up whats left with the chemicals and elbow grease.
Sometimes the non-skid can make it tricky, just bear with it.

Heat gun or blow dryer on low. Be careful not to over heat it just enough to make. It plyable. I've done this many times on some really old 5200 and was amazed how well it works. Go slow, take your time and use a sharpened clothespin to assist. You may also want to pre-warm the rail mount area where it mates with the gelcoat. I have been in a hurry before and had the gelcoat pull off with the item I was removing. A thin wooden sliver wedge may also help with that. Time is your friend when doing this... It is a delaminating process.

5200.... A savior and demon all in one tube. I have a love/hate relationship with the stuff.

Low with the heat. Gelcoat will phase shift very easily.

Thanks
 

Thanks Guys...the low heat and taking my time sounds like the way to go
See even thou I don't have a classic anymore I still can get something out of you guys ,LOL

Joe R.
21 SeaCraft
Susie 2

Joe R,

What ever you do to the Susie 2, never do the 52!

Just kidding, but its all in fun!

Is the rail still available?

Will be in the spring, boat is in a dealers service building nice and warm, getting some things dialed in....as soon as weather breaks I will post when its avail

Joe R.
21 SeaCraft
Susie 2

I'll bring a heat gun by when your ready and we'll turn that stuff back to toothpaste and have the rail off in a jiffy if ya like!

Thanks Bruce...talk with U later....still digging out around the store...

Joe R.
21 SeaCraft
Susie 2