Silicon Sealant Removal

[Silver Heels]

Hello,

What is the best way to remove silicon sealant without damaging the underlying paint? I recently redid the transom on my 20' Mirrocraft and the seam between the splashwell and the rest of the rest of the hull has about 6 feet total of silicon. I have tried mineral spirits and brake cleaner to dissolve the silicon to no avail. This stuff does not come off well with a scraper, especially since I don't want to damage the paint. Any thoughts??

One last thing, when I re-caulk this joint, what should I use. from the factory, the boat came with a tough, white sealer which was painted over. The P.O. removed the splashwell once before and used silicon in its place. My plan is to re caulk with a bead of 4200 and paint over. Does 4200 take paint?

Thank alot
-Silver Heels

 

[fishrdan]

Re: Silicon Sealant Removal

I've soaked silicone in paint thinner and it broke the silicone down a bit, enough that it could be scraped/wire brushed off. By soaking I mean totally immersed for several hours, you could try wedging some paper towels in the joint and keeping it wet for a day or so.

I agree with the 3M product, but would use 5200 since this is going to be a permanent joint.

 

[5150abf]

Re: Silicon Sealant Removal

I used a razor blade then got the rest with my fingernail, there really is no good way to do it.

 

[gss036]

Re: Silicon Sealant Removal

I would have some second thoughts about using 5200, after all this is the second time it would be done, will there for some unknown reason, be a 3rd time? 5200 is really difficult if not impossible to remove in some cases.

 

[AtoZ]

Re: Silicon Sealant Removal

Try "3M 2153 REMOVER CAULK LIQUID - 8Oz." about $5