Community Forums

lbaker5644 · 05-26-2013, 12:09 PM

I haven't seen this asked on here. On my 96 Dolphin the black seal (tar like feel) is seeping/extending out from the window trim. What is the best way to clean this up without damaging the gel coat. Is Goof Off safe to use? After I'm done with the wash and prep I am going to to use the Zep Wet Look on it.

jesilvas · 05-26-2013, 01:21 PM

It may just be the butyl putty coming out from behind it, but I'm not sure.
I use paint thinner on gel coat and it's ok.

BFlinn181 · 05-26-2013, 03:08 PM

Be careful using solvents on the butyl rubber, you might dissolve more than you want. I'd suggest trimming any excess with a plastic putty knife. Any left over solvent might continue to break down the rubber and create bigger problems down the road.

Davdeb1 · 05-26-2013, 03:21 PM

At that age, it might be a good idea to pull windows off and reseal. How long have you had it, and have you ever resealed the windows?

catonine · 05-26-2013, 05:34 PM

Unless the amount that has oozed out is excessive, I suggest just leave it alone. If it is excessive, I would do like BFlinn suggested if I did anything. Cleaning the butyl tape with acetone or the like could very well cause problems. With your coach being a 96 model it may very well need to have all windows resealed. I have owned a coach of similar vintage and never had a problem.

jesilvas · 05-26-2013, 05:38 PM

Don't clean with acetone, but MEK or paint thinner would be fine at taking the left overs after trimming.
MEK will take paint off metal, but paint thinner would be safest.

Davdeb1 · 05-26-2013, 05:42 PM

Mineral spirits work very well and evaporates fast and doesn't leave a residue.

ga traveler · 05-26-2013, 05:59 PM

If it is oozing out, We always used a razor blade a cut lightly around the window and used a plastic scraper to clean the excess off. Then clean with any good cleaner.