[jarcher]

Does anyone have any experience with 3M™ General Purpose Adhesive Cleaner:

Shop 3M: 3M General Purpose Adhesive Cleaner, 8984, 1 Quart (US)

The 3M web site says:

Specially blended solvent which provides easy cleanup of most types of adhesives, bugs, greases and oils, overspray, silicone, waxes and tars.
Will not harm most thoroughly cured automotive paint, vinyl or fabrics when properly used. Part numbers 08984 and 08986 have a VOC content of 816 grams per liter (6.8 lbs per gallon). Composite Partial Pressure equals 4.81 mmHg. Local air quality regulations may regulate or prohibit the use of surface preparation and cleanup materials based on VOC content. Consult your local air quality regulations.

I am trying to remove an unknown adhesive from where it was used to bed dead lights, a job track and chain plates. There is some silicon there, but also a yellowish brown adhesive. 3M didn't mention whether it is safe for fiberglass.

I spent hours rubbing, scraping and sanding today but didn't make much progress

 

[sailingdog]

If the adhesive is yellowish brown, it may be a polyurethane sealant, since they tend to turn brown when exposed to UV.

 

[joethecobbler]

sandpaper is quite effective

 

[resdog]

I use it to clean up residual adhesives from decals and foam tapes. It will soften glues but it doesn't really remove them without a lot of elbow grease. Have you tried careful application of a heat gun and a sharp plastic scraper?

 

[jarcher]

I did try the sharp scraper but not the heat gun, I'll try that thanks. I think sandpaper is probably what it will take.

Scraping left some big chips in the gel coat underneath the adhesive, so I'll fill in with putty or epoxy. I plan to use a gasket next.

 

[39512]

I use 3M adhesive remover frequently and I find it effective if the solvent is left on the adhesive for a time in order to soften it. In this case, the above recommended technique of using a heat gun, then scraping and using the adhesive remover for the final cleanup may be the best solution. Also, toluene works but you MUST wear gloves for skin protection. Toluene evaporates more slowly than some other solvents, so it has more time to work.

The best scrapers I have for these types of jobs I made from lexan or polycarbonate scraps sharpened to a chisel edge.

I think the gasket idea needs further thought.