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O.K. here's the deal. I purchased some larger tabs for the boat and when I went to remove the old tabs I found it nearly impossible to get the screws out. I spent 1 hour to remove only 3 of the 24 screws from the transom. Does anyone know of a trick in removing these that have been installed with the 3M 5200 sealant? I am mainly concerned with stripping the heads or possibly breaking a screw off. An impact seems it may be the trick but with stainless being so soft I don't want to blow the head off. Otherwise as it sits I'll be selling the new tabs.

GOODT

HEAT........ USE A HEAT GUN

Its the only way

RLW

There is a product called Debond 2000. It will breakdown 3M 5200. They used it on Ship Shape TV to remove a OB bracket from a boat. No peeling of the gelcoat.
The heat gun approach sounds like a winner for your situation.
Are you removing Bennett Tabs?

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RLW, I have some dual ram Insta-Trim tabs that I was replacing with their larger sport tab. My only concern with the heat gun was possible damage to the gel. The screws are very close to the edge of the plate. Any thoughts?

Pismo10

ShipShape TV is great except for the guy talks to everyone and the viewers like they are in kindergarten. HEAT! gently.

RLW

Make sure your screwdriver is the correct size. To many times people use too small a screwdriver and that contributes to the head getting mangled.
Gentle heat is good advice. Take your time.

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Thanks for the help guys! Being the weather was so nasty Sunday I got run off the river early morning so no fishing, Came home took a nap and decided to just watch the race. And of course it rains in the southern half as well. So what the heck nothing to do but work on the boat. It took well over an hour but I did manage to get one side off, cleaned up and re-painted and back on tonight. Now one more side to go. And by the way I used 5200 on the re-install. Thats some good stuff!!