5200 removal

[Allure2sail]

Hello fellow Compac sailors:
Trying to remove the sea hood off the "27 parts boat" for a member here and I've never seen so much 5200 used anywhere else on the boat. What an absolute pain (you know where) to cut and remove. Anyone know what I could use on this stuff to soften the bond? Seem to remember this subject coming up before.
Thank you
Bruce
S/V Allure

[ChuckO]

AHoy,

I would buy and try Un-Hesive I have not personally tried this product ... but have read that it DOES work  ... do some research and use your own judgement.  Some info follows:

While the cautions on the label on a tube of 5200 will tell you that it makes a permanent bond, which can only be removed mechanically, this amazing marine formula will actually de-bond the 5200 adhesive by breaking the grip between the 5200 and the surface to which it has been applied.

It just breaks the bond, but does not break down the adhesive material itself, so it can simply be peeled away without damaging the surface, or requiring hours with a chisel and scraper. The other great thing is that it is a water-based solution, that looks, feels, and smells like a mild kitchen cleaner. We know by experience that other so-called de-bonding agents (that come in a tiny 1 oz bottle) just don't perform. They are slimy, smelly, and don't allow the adhesive to be peeled away.

ChuckO'
Carpe Diem  CP-16/2
Charleston, SC

[Floridagent]

A search of "5200 solvent" here leads you to Marine Formula by DeBond Corporation (http://www.marineformula.com/).  And, stories of it working!
Bob "Florida Gent"

[Steady1]

Bruce, dude!  Don't know for sure, can't recall--old guy thing--but have you tried a heat gun...gently?  I've had good luck with that in the past. Give it a shot!

Out.

[Craig]

If all that fails a Phaser may be needed(try stun setting first!) Seriously, 5200 is tenacious stuff! Often the gel coat will pull away before the 5200 looses it's bond. It is actually a better adhesive than sealant.

[wes]

I've currently got my sea hood off, and in the process spent many hours cursing 5200 ("Satan's Adhesive"). It would not have been possible without Debond Marine Formula, about which I've written several times in the past. It works best when you can get it inside the joint. I usually spray around the perimeter, give it an hour to work, then wet a thin putty knife with the chemical, work it into the joint and spray more into the resulting slit.

Best way to buy is directly through the manufacturer's web site, www.marineformula.com. The price is a little higher than at online discounters, but their low shipping rates (esp. if you order several cans) make up for it. Recommend the 12 oz. aerosol can.

Heat helps. Best time to do this kind of thing is when the weather is hot.

With all my heart and soul I offer this advice: never use 5200 for anything you or a future owner may need to remove. That obviously includes deck hardware, and about everything else on a sailboat with possible exception of the hull to deck joint. It is PERMANENT.

Wes

[Craig]

Amen to that Wes! I can't figure why so many folks use it as a first line adhesive/sealant. Maybe they think that if 4200 is good,5200 must be better. Good old marketing conditioning....bigger number...better product.