'66 Rebuild

[Bhard]

Our rebuild project suffered its first set back.  "Thankfully" it was me and not the boat; I had to have my ACL replaced and am still recovering.  Once I off the crutches, we'll resume the project.   I guess this was good timing, as with temperatures in CT have dipped below zero several times the last few weeks, I doubt if I could have gotten the barn warm enough to do any serious work done anyway!  

So while I recover..........a few questions to pick your brains.......

1.  We were hoping to save the console in the boat, but it was well set with construction adhesive (5200).  This stuff is AMAZING, and I must say my brother (who used it) is getting a huge chuckle over my inability to defeat the stuff!!!   Is there ANYTHING that can cut through or dissolve this stuff?  I've tried wood, metal and fiberglass blades with a reciprical saw, chisels, and a few other tools I probably shouldn't mention...trust me, frustration definitely set in...but still nothing!  So, before I give up and just cut the console out and start searching for a replacement, I'll take ANY ideas.       (PS, I might just use 5200 on whatever I put back in!!!!)

2.  I've asked before, but thus far without luck.  Does anyone have a mold(s) for floor hatches? Or perhaps the bow step/platform with a few hatches?  I hear the prefab hatches don't stand up.  I'm not confident enough to try to build a mold for the forward platform as well as for hatches, but I definately don't want to loose the only really area for storage.  (the original was removed years ago, so I don't have anything to work from)

Thanks to all who assisted with the floor wood question....I finally decided on, and purchased, the marine plywood.

Thanks in advance.     Betsy & Brien.

[bdtsr]

As for the 5200 removal, use a large thick blade putty knife and sharpen the edge. Use a hammer to whack the putty knife through the 5200, starting at one corner of the console work your way to the next corner. It helps to have someone lift the console as you go. Use Boatlife caulk or silicone to reinstall the console so you won't have to go through this again.

[slippery73]

Be careful with the blade and hammer, you have to go along it gently as I have seen fiberglass break before the 5200 does. If that isn't working try some heavier stainless steel leader material like you would use for kingfishing. If you can get that through one spot or have a starting point you just attach a couple wood blocks to the neds of the wire and pull it along. Helps to have two people for this job, one person holding the end inside the console and one person outside.

[Bhard]

Thanks for the suggestions.  Unfortunately putty knives were my first failed attempt(s).  I'll try the leader suggestion next.