I beleive West Marine sells an adhesive remover for the adhesive used on both PVC and Hypalon.( it may be in the repair kit they sell) It may be a bit different compound depending on the material.

 

MEK will remove it, but may leave the surface sticky and age a lot faster. If you're taking the davits off the dinghy I would cut a piece of the pvc material and put it over the area the pads were.

If you're just replacing the pads, clean it with MEK and glue it right back on!

 

Thanks guys....unfortunately MEK is not available up here where I am. Looked for it before and was told there were problems getting it shipped here. Don't ask me why.

I had to remove a pad and now have to reinstall it....wanna get rid of the old glue first.

I'll check with West marine. I've contacted Weaver to see what they might suggest as well.

Thanks

 

You can get it in Canada. I have bought it at Home Depot I think or maybe Canadian Tire. Its full name is Methyl Ethyl Ketone. I am 90% sure it was Canadian Tire in either the paint department or maybe automotive paint department.

 

They make an MEK substitute. You can also use a sandpaper flapper wheel very gently as well. I found this to be easier and then I cleaned up with acetone before patching.

 

Thanks.....will try that flapper wheel.

Here's the reply from Weaver I just got:

"Acetone will work just make sure that it is 100% pure acetone "

 

If you do come across MEK. It will break down the adhesive and the PVC / HApalon. Be certain to seal the area up w/ 303.

 

Really? First I've heard of that. Thanks.

I'll be trying the careful sanding recommended by Weaver and then the Acetone though.

They said I don't have to get it all off but to ensure I get as much as I can and that it's smooth before reinstalling.

 

Must look again thanks.

When I looked for it I checked a few of the paint stores in Kingston...that's where I was told they couldn't get it.

 

It's a job but MEK will get it off. I know your remounting them but for others out there who want them removed and come to find out that the spot where they were is discolored there is hope. I found a very close color match from Krylon in their plastic paint. It
bonds very well, I spray canned mine and no one can tell where the pad was and it's been three years now with no problems. I wouldn't be afraid to paint my whole Zodiac with KRylon paint for plastic.

 

Not sure if it will work but WD40 removes most adhesive including old Duct Tape. Spray cilicon will loosen some adhesives. Letboth sit for at least 2 hours.