Marine Mat Installation/Traction Mat Removal

[Lawman25]

I'm about to install Marine Mat in my 06 230. Anyone have any tips for removing the original black traction mat on the swim platform?

 

[drewkaree]

I'm about to install Marine Mat in my 06 230. Anyone have any tips for removing the original black traction mat on the swim platform?

Wait.

Next week, your temps are supposed to be in the 70's. Pull the cover, let it warm up, and start working on the upper level first, so you can swap positions and possibly stand comfortably after you've been working at it. Removing the lower level first, will leave you with no padding under your knees as you work on the upper level

Some sort of adhesive remover will help, but those need time to dwell and work on the adhesive. A heat gun will help, but can cause problems if you work too long on one area, so maybe a hair dryer would be safer. You can judge your comfort level and choose accordingly.

Plastic scraper, and some Grey or white scotch Brite pads (Amazon will get them to you by next week). A spray bottle will help you apply your adhesive remover.

I've recently had personal experience with mineral oil (baby oil is the same, just with a fragrance added) making adhesive removal a painless process ON SKIN. No idea how it'd work on the mats, but I wouldn't discount it, and I would consider at least trying it myself, after using it to remove a CGM sensor that was tearing me up and leaving me bloody. Took 5 minutes, and the adhesive simply pulled off easily. Different adhesives, I admit, but I was considering using Goof Off, which some actually do use on themselves

I would spray Goo gone or goof off all around the edges to start (same with mineral oil if you decide to try it). Let it sit for 5-ish minutes, and start working the plastic scraper into the pad, trying to force the remover liquid further under, while also lifting the edges. Lather rinse repeat.

 

[anmut]

I recently read a great tip from Will at @JetBoatPilot, where he suggested to use a rag soaked in mineral spirits, place on top of your mat, then cover the whole mat with plastic sheet. Then wait 24 hours and after that it'll just be goo to remove.

Maybe he can chime in if I got that wrong...

 

[Jerlane]

There are lots of threads on this topic. Try searching and you'll find lots of info. Heat gun for the matt itself. Acetone for the residual adhesive.

 

[Bubba7827]

be advised that lots of great threads does not equate to easy job.

 

[bridgetjon]

I took mine off last year, and the heat stripper really helped soften the glue. Then I used a plastic spatula so as not to scratch the gelcoat. Acetone worked well for residues. It's a little long but it's worth it!

 

[Lawman25]

I took mine off last year, and the heat stripper really helped soften the glue. Then I used a plastic spatula so as not to scratch the gelcoat. Acetone worked well for residues. It's a little long but it's worth it!

When you say heat stripper, do you mean a heat gun?

 

[Lawman25]

be advised that lots of great threads does not equate to easy job.

Facts

 

[drewkaree]

When you say heat stripper, do you mean a heat gun?

I'm going with Candy, the one from Florida, working her way through "medical school"