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cerickson · 03-01-2018, 06:45 PM

Has anybody needed to remove a solar panel that they mounted with VHB + Sikaflex? How do you do it? I was thinking a guitar string might be able to cut through the tape, but perhaps there is an easier way.

Is there a solvent to clean up cured sikaflex?

I'm adding another panel, and it will be shifted from the one next to it by an inch or two (due to the air conditioner), so I need to move the existing one (slightly) so I don't lose my mind.

AtomicNo13 · 03-01-2018, 07:34 PM

The string/floss/wire method is the best and safest method for protecting the finish of the shell.
Not sure about sealant removal.

rmkrum · 03-01-2018, 07:59 PM

Plastic single edge razor blades, used gently and slowly. Try Amazon.

dznf0g · 03-01-2018, 08:33 PM

Go to AM Solar website and watch their video

cerickson · 03-02-2018, 07:12 AM

Thanks, the video was helpful.

Does AM Solar not seal around the edges with Sikaflex? I wonder how much harder it will be since it is sealed

cerickson · 03-02-2018, 07:13 AM

I did come across this:

"According to Sika Corporation, cured Sikaflex may only be removed mechanically; cleansing agents will not work." I guess perhaps that's why it is so effective...

dznf0g · 03-02-2018, 07:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cerickson

Thanks, the video was helpful.

Does AM Solar not seal around the edges with Sikaflex? I wonder how much harder it will be since it is sealed

Not sure, but Lewster is one of their "preferred installers" and he does. I'd carefully dig the sealer away from around the edges and then use the AM solar method on the tape. Clean everything up after the feet are dis-engaged.

AnnArborBob · 03-02-2018, 08:09 AM

Mineral spirits will soften cured Sikaflex. But you still need a bit of elbow grease. A plastic or metal Spackle applicator is helpful. I started with a plastic one but found that it was easier to use a metal one and it wasn't hard to control it to avoid scratching the painted aluminum roof.

weber.roger · 03-02-2018, 09:42 AM

After you used whatever spirits you tried. Use old fashioned baby oil. Soak it daily for a few weeks. It works on a lot of adhesive.Just not sure of what your adhesive is. But its worth a try for a buck

Adventure.AS · 03-02-2018, 09:55 AM

When removing items on our sail boat that had been sealed with polyurethane adhesives like 3M 5200, I used a product called Debond. It is available at most marine stores.

Llittle54 · 03-02-2018, 10:15 AM

Alcohol will make short work of the 3M tape. I use a kitchen pan scraper and pour some alcohol at the 3M edge and work the scraper under as I go.
(https://www.amazon.com/Progressive-I...ds=pan+scraper)
Just removed an old sewer vent with the scraper and it cleaned the factory caulk without any issues.

Kilroy · 03-02-2018, 02:29 PM

My philosophy, most of the time, of working on the roof of trailer has been; out of sight, out of mind. I use a multi tool with the scraper blade, works great. Final clean up with carburetor or brake cleaner. This works the same as Eterna bonds Eterna Clean.