traction pad

[kramma]

hey im new to surfing and have got a board with a worn out traction pad, and i wanted to know how to remove it, is there anthing i need to remove it or anything,
Thanks

[Brent]

Ok, there is no nice way to do this.
You have a soldily stuck pad with quality adhesive....it's gonna take chemicals.

First, use a sharp plastic scraper like a wedge and chip away at the pad, take your time doing this as the more that comes off in big bits...the less work later on. get as much as you can off.
Then get some automotive degreaser or kerosene on a cloth and wipe the tacky adhesive area remaining, using the scraper to remove the now softening glue. Do this carefully & thoroughly. Rinse & scrub this area with warm water & detergent immediatly afterwards. It's best to really clean the whole board at the same time since you've got all this crap out.

I've done my old tailpads this way for years, I've never once harmed or even marked the glass jobs (either pro-finished or gloss coats) on any board with engine degreaser. It is a good way to do this difficult & otherwise time-consuming job.

But others who've never tried it will say otherwise I guess...good luck.

[Broosta]

And try blowing hot air onto the pad first with a hair dryer - it melts the glue slightly and makes the pad more likely to come off in one go.

[little waves]

Then get some automotive degreaser or kerosene on a cloth and wipe the tacky adhesive area remaining

Nail polish remover works well for this part to, and not to harsh on the board. also works good to get that last bit of wax off you couldn't scrape with the comb

[Brent]

Never tried the hair-dryer.
I'll try that next time I do my hair *smirk*