Help removing window frame

[Pat T]

I have started this lousy job of replacing glass and window tracks. I dreaded this job. It's labor intensive and no fun at all. So far I have removed 2 sliders and 1 fixed window pane. The 2 sliders were sealed with silicone and I was able cut and pry the frames free after removing bungs and frame fastening screws. However I am stuck on the 3rd slider. This window was more recently rebuilt with a different material for sealing. I think it might be Dolphinite. The tool I used in prior windows (see picture) won't work. Once again I ask for the experts guidance. Is there some kind of power tool I can purchase to get behind these frames? Thanks again.

 

[Comodave]

Dolphinite should not get hard if I remember correctly. I would try a heat gun and see if the bedding gets softer. The only power toll that I can think of would be a multi tool but it would likely severely damage the side of the cabin. I use some heat and then a sharpened putty knife to cut the bedding l. Also I put a second wide putty knife next to the cabin side to protect it.

 

[mahal]

Are you sure that you have to remove the entire frame to replace the glass and tracks? I remember a discussion on the old GB owners forum where someone mentioned only removing the inner part of the frame (the part that’s sticking out more in your picture).

 

[Portage_Bay]

Dolphinite is an old skool product not used much any more. It doesn't have strong adhesive properties. It does dry out and harden over decades. It should be much easier to remove pieces bedded in Dolphinite than any more modern compound. If you really suspect it is Dolphinite try using Pettit's 120 thinner which is recommended for thinning the compound. As many instructions say, test in an inconspicuous area, it may damage coatings.

If it's not Dolphinite search West Marine and other suppliers for "Sealant Remover" and you'll find products that claim to soften any modern sealant. I've had good luck using them.

And as suggested above, heat gun and sharp putty knife.

 

[Pat T]

Are you sure that you have to remove the entire frame to replace the glass and tracks? I remember a discussion on the old GB owners forum where someone mentioned only removing the inner part of the frame (the part that’s sticking out more in your picture).

Thanks. If I understand you correctly you might assume the frame is made of multiple pieces? It appears to be a milled single piece shapped/cut as such. So not a chance to take out the outermost piece. Besides, I needed to remove everything from the bottom to make sure there was no water damage ( so far so good) and to recoat it with something - I haven't got that far.

 

[tiz]

Use shims from Home Depot to pry the window out gently. Buy 2-3 packs as they split easily.

Once you lift an edge with a putty knife, insert a shim. Tap it in until it stops, put one next to it and do the same. Add some heat if possible. Keep going around the window. Also mask off around the window so any tools dont mar the fiberglass.

I did my mainship 390 helm window that way.

 

[Bmarler]

You can try a blade like this in an oscillating tool.

Amazon.com

Or maybe this offset one.

Amazon.com

Put tape over the area adjacent to the frame so it doesn’t get scratched.