Roof Side Seam Sealing

[MDPD]

I have done several searches for information on sealing the side seams and saw numerous suggestions on the type of sealant but could not find any information on the best way of removing the old sealant without damaging the paint. Any suggestions on the best tools to use and the best way to use them to remove as much of the old sealant as possible and use of any special solvent to clean the surfaces to maximize the bond to the roof and channel. Thanks in advance.

[Yoda2405]

I bought a small hobby tool from Harbor Freight that has a very flexible razor edge on the blade with a wood handle. The blades are replaceable. I force it along the edge of the fiberglass and cut the sealant from the fiberglass as well as the outside edge along the channel. I then pull the old sealant out of the channel and clean the channel with denatured alcohol. After removing all the questionable sealant, I re-seal all the channel where I had removed the sealant.
This method has worked for me for a few years, on my second Winny.

Safe Travels,
David

[nightriderrv]

As said above you can cut the sealant, I use a razor knife and I make what I call wooden sticks I have some oak scraps milled to 3/4 x 3/4 then when ready I cut a 45 in the and cut the other side to a 45 so there two ends to work with, use the wooden oak sticks to run along the side and remove the sealant then clean and reapply.

[zippo]

You can buy plastic razor blades for next to nothing. They work great for many of the RV caulk and sealant jobs.

[Harry B]

I was able to pull mine out, by getting a starter piece cut loose. Then I pulling it gently in the direction from where I cut it loose. It causes the sealant to stretch and shrink and pull loose from its contact areas.
I was able to do several feet at the time this way and then start this process over again. It took maybe about a hour to remove all of it. I believe this procedure only works on the elastomeric type sealant which stretches before it breaks

[hydro45640]

I used a sharp metal putty knife and mineral spirits. Just go slow. I never harmed the paint.