Well, you are probably going to get a variety of responses. Funnily enough, people have almost the same fervor for their calk as they do for their
anchor or religion.
I am assuming that enough time has passed for the 5200 to completely cure. In that case, to remove the mount I suggest using a thin blade to CUT the 5200. I have used mechanical means (scraper and wire brush) to clean off most of the old caulk. Then I have resorted to "better living through chemistry", having used a number of solvents to remove the final remnants. One popular choice is "anti-bond"
sold in many
marine stores (look for the red cap). Be careful about some solvents (such as MEK) which can soften
gelcoat,
paint, the inner surface of your lungs, etc....
Removing 5200 is a pain, but unlike many sailors, I LIKE 5200 (in its place). It's
adhesive properties are fantastic.
However, if I anticipate the need to remove a piece of
equipment, I usually use 3m 4200 (a
polyurethane sealant with less
adhesive properties than 5200).
One final thought for the
DIY cruisers out there. To
work with any nasty chemical, I have a mask with a filter for organic solvents. It cost only $20 and it filters out enough that I can't even smell some of the yucky things I have been working with. The one working brain cell I have left is very thankful!
Good Luck!
Mike