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Doing a deep clean on my '95 26s, with all the cushions/access panels out of the way, the old adhesive backing for the velco is an eyesore on the fiberglass. Any recommended products/procedures to remove as much of the old adhesive from the fiberglass without damaging it? I'll be putting down new velco.

Thanks,

Chip

I did this same thing recently. If you mean fiberglass as in the stuff with the white finished surface (gelcoat?), then I would suggest a clean, fresh flat razor blade with a grip. You might get away with a stiff, thin plastic scraper that would be safer on the finish should the razor blade slip or catch. Any leftovers I removed with a rag soaked in mineral spirits. I was surprised by how poorly the mineral spirits worked, but I guess a "mild" cleaner that takes a little elbow grease is better than a "harsh" cleaner that destroys your finish.

If you are talking about adhesive sticking to raw, unfinished fiberglass, then I guess maybe some GooGone would work?

Yeah, the interior gelcoat. The velcro that was attached to the interior walls (and the cushions themselves) no longer stuck to the adhesive (same around the access panels). In some spots it looks like adhesive just dripped down the walls.

Going to try cutting a piece of paper towel, liberally apply some goo gone, let it soak, and try to scrape it off with a plastic scraper. If that doesn't work, give it some heat or try some IPA.

Thanks!

I would NOT use a razor blade on the fiberglass as you'll risk cutting or chipping the gel coat. Instead, if you need to scrape it, get yourself some plastic razor blades (like these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076BBW1WM).

Further, you should soften the adhesive in advance of scraping by using Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK). This solvent won't hurt the fiberglass, but it will remove the glue used to adhere nearly anything - it's very powerful solvent for most glues. However... you MUST ensure the area is VERY well ventilated before using it, so my advice is to have a box fan running in the companionway and have the front hatch wide open before starting. Also, I'd advise using chemical resistant gloves and safety glasses. Do not use much... a little goes a long way. Also, don't let it get on surfaces other than the fiberglass, as it will damage many plastics and painted surfaces. This solvent will save you an enormous amount of time in removing adhesives and also leave a very clean finish.

I took away the anty slip strap around the boat.
Normal Gas from the outboard did the job well.

kmclemore wrote: ↑Tue Nov 08, 2022 8:56 pm I would NOT use a razor blade on the fiberglass as you'll risk cutting or chipping the gel coat. Instead, if you need to scrape it, get yourself some plastic razor blades (like these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076BBW1WM).

Yup, those plastic razor blades have been a big help.

kmclemore wrote: ↑Tue Nov 08, 2022 8:56 pm Further, you should soften the adhesive in advance of scraping by using Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK). This solvent won't hurt the fiberglass, but it will remove the glue used to adhere nearly anything - it's very powerful solvent for most glues. However... you MUST ensure the area is VERY well ventilated before using it, so my advice is to have a box fan running in the companionway and have the front hatch wide open before starting. Also, I'd advise using chemical resistant gloves and safety glasses. Do not use much... a little goes a long way. Also, don't let it get on surfaces other than the fiberglass, as it will damage many plastics and painted surfaces. This solvent will save you an enormous amount of time in removing adhesives and also leave a very clean finish.

Will give that a shot, thanks!

kmclemore wrote: ↑Tue Nov 08, 2022 8:56 pm I would NOT use a razor blade on the fiberglass as you'll risk cutting or chipping the gel coat. Instead, if you need to scrape it, get yourself some plastic razor blades (like these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076BBW1WM).

Thanks, Kevin. Another product I didn't know existed that I added to my toolbox.

Also, I've used moderate heat to help remove adhesives.

How about the leftover adhesive on the back of the cushions? Have a full set of original cushions in really good condition and don't want to damage the vinyl backs.

chipmonger wrote: ↑Thu Nov 10, 2022 3:22 pm How about the leftover adhesive on the back of the cushions? Have a full set of original cushions in really good condition and don't want to damage the vinyl backs.

This is more difficult, as MEK, Goo-Gone, or any strong solvent will damage the vinyl. I'd try paint thinner (the clear stuff, not that new whitish stuff) to soften things (try it on a small spot first) and then use a plastic scraper VERY carefully.

Lemon oil generally works without damaging vinyl … other than seeming to revitalize the vinyl surface for me…
I think that’s what’s in Goo-Gone.
Give it a bit of time to soak in.
I’ve not used plastic razor blades but I have used those plastic kitchen scrapers you can find in the grocery store to good effect.
Big enough to hold on to and still good at getting to the surface with a non cutting edge.


I’d be hesitant about any strong solvents or ‘thinners’ as many actually dissolve or embrittle vinyl.

What ever you try do it on an inconspicuous spot.

Used warm water/vinegar with a dash of Dawn to do a general cleaning on the cushions Then started with Goo Gone on the hard to remove areas. Slow and sure I was able to remove the tree sap from the cockpit cushions. Unfortunately, I found the zipper sliders were corroded away. That'll have to be a project for a seamstress down the road.

Thanks to all!

Peerco 321 is the best option if you are removing adhesive from an easily damaged substrate like vinyl etc. It's best to apply and cover with plastic wrap so it doesn't dry out, after 30 minutes it will scrape right off.

https://www.aircraftdoorseals.com/door- ... er-1-pint/