Removing Velcro from Gelcoat

[BillandCarole]

We have adhesive Velcro fasteners that have deteriorated from sunlight exposure. They have to be replaced. Unfortunately, the adhesive that holds them to the rig has not. Suggestions on getting them off? Will WD40 safely do the trick? Any other ideas?
Thanks
Bill and Carole

[Gjac]

ScottG wrote:
When removing them, pull it straight back against the itself. If you pull it off perpendicular to the surface you have the highest risk of damage.

All adhesives are weaker in peel than in tension. If the adhesive is epoxy, solvent won't work if it is some kind of contact adhesive acetone would be the best bet to soften the adhesive. I would try to start the peel with a razor after acetone at the bond line then grab with Visegrips to peel it off.

[BillandCarole]

Thanks Everyone
The dental floss idea I love. The goof-off I am not familiar with and will look into. Were not worried about the shaded problem as we are putting on new Velcro. We may try some of the other ideas as well if the wd40 doesn't work. We have it on hand so it and the dental floss are first up to bat.
Thanks Again
Bill and Carole

[Dakzuki]

Gelcoat won't be dissolved by solvents so don't be afraid you experiment with different ones to cut the adhesive.

[Campfire_Time]

PeteK-Hou wrote:

TurnStyle wrote:
If you can get under an edge you might try using a piece of dental floss to separate the Velcro from the surface then use goof off to remove the adhesive.

Monofiliment fishing line works a bit better and won't break as easy.

X2. Then work off the glue residue with a little bit of mineral spirits on a soft cotton rag.

[PeteK-Hou]

TurnStyle wrote:
If you can get under an edge you might try using a piece of dental floss to separate the Velcro from the surface then use goof off to remove the adhesive.

Monofiliment fishing line works a bit better and won't break as easy.

[TurnStyle]

If you can get under an edge you might try using a piece of dental floss to separate the Velcro from the surface then use goof off to remove the adhesive.

[Chris_Bryant]

I would also try a heat gun- not screaming hot, though.

[ScottG]

When removing them, pull it straight back against the itself. If you pull it off perpendicular to the surface you have the highest risk of damage.

[darsben]

I have used Goof off on Gelcoat with no problem. Available at Lowe's etc. The only problem after removal is the area has faded less than the surrounding gelcoat.

[pigman1]

I've used Goo Gone, but it's a bit of a slow process when the stuff has been on for a long time. The solvent needs time to penetrate the glue and if the glue is well dried in the sun... Well, you get the idea.

[rhagfo]

WD 40 or Test with Goof Off.