Date: 8/26/2006
Name: Joel Peterson
email: bayberryb-b@juno.com
subject:Stuck jam cleats
Glen, your jam cleats may be bedded in 3M 5200. This is one the worlds best adhesive/sealer every made. If the cleates are held by caulking. Here are some methods that should work.First, remove the mounting hardware if possible or get the hardware to spin in place if possible.
1. Then try lifting one edge of the cleat and work a very sharp one side razor blade under the edge. This will cut the adhesive. Keep working your way around the jam cleat. Use a holder for the blade. Do not apply to much force. One of the reasons these boats are quick is because they are built light. If you hear any sound from the surround fiberglass you are applying to much force.
2. Sawzall the cleats off close to the deck using a pieces of aluminum or paneling on both sides of the cleat to control your height and to protect the fiberglass. The remaining pieces stuck to the deck should peel off not having any strength left.
3. The other method is to use a electric heat gun. Most sealers are very heat sensitive. But fiberglass can be damaged as well by heat. Do not use a open or closed flame. Fiberglass burns very easily. Keep a garden hose, water and wet rags handy to cool the jam cleat and the fiberglass.
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