sorry, important DIY question

In all honesty it is not likely worth all the effort involved. It would be easier to leave it and buy a new one when you get back here. If you are set on doing it though a razor blade will seperate the seals. It is a ton of work though. I have never done it on anything larger then a 65. Good luck.

I do not know about the thinner. Never heard of it and never tried it.

Glass isn't terribly porous, so cleaning after using thinner shouldn't be a big problem. I don't believe cured silicone is soluble in thinner, though. Maybe the idea is that it would seep under the seal and loosen the silicone's grip on the glass? I doubt that would work...

I don't know of anything that will remove cured silicone... even uncured silicone needs something with some ooomph (e.g., mineral spirits) for it to be removed from a surface. I think the best bet may be a single-edged razor blade.

I really wonder whether this will turn out to be worth the trouble... taking apart and reassembling this tank won't be a small or easy undertaking, assuming you can successfully reseal it. Is there any chance of selling it and buying another tank?

Good luck,
Jim

I always thought mineral spirits and paint thinner were basically the same thing? I remember cleaning the paintbrushes with it. But more to the point here is an answer from GE's site about removing silicon it basically echoes what everyone's said.



How do I remove silicone products from surrounding areas?

It is VERY difficult to remove silicone from a surface. However, if you must remove it, follow the suggestions below.
On Smooth, Non-porous Surfaces
To remove silicone sealant from surfaces, first remove as much as possible by cutting/peeling/scraping excess sealant from surface.

For ceramic tile, marble, Formica, fiberglass, etc., use 100% mineral spirits (turpentine) and a non-abrasive scouring pad. Test solvent on a hidden area of the surface to ensure that discoloration will not occur. If discoloration does occur, contact the manufacturer of the surface for further assistance.
For glass surfaces, use a razor blade to remove as much as possible, then apply mineral spirits. Remove excess as much as possible, then apply mineral spirits. Remove excess with a towel or other suitable cleaning utensil that will not mar the surface, i.e., non-abrasive pad.
NOTE: For surfaces such as hard plastics or painted surfaces, including cars, use rubbing alcohol and a soft cloth. Do not use mineral spirits.

Only use these solvents in a well-ventilated area and follow all safety precautions and instructions listed on the product label. Material Safety Data Sheets for GE Sealants & Adhesives products are available upon request. Similar information for solvents and other chemicals you choose to use with GE products should be obtained from your suppliers. When solvents are used, proper safety precautions must be observed.

On Rough, Porous Surfaces
To remove silicone from a porous/rough surface, (concrete, brick, wallpaper) remove as much as possible (same as smooth surface). If necessary, use a wire brush in conjunction with mineral spirits.

NOTE: We do not recommend use of a wire brush to remove sealant from wood surfaces, as so doing could damage the wood. Also, mineral spirits should not be used if the wood has any type of finish on it. Test solvent on a hidden area before applying. Mineral spirits are flammable and should be used away from sparks, flames and other sources of ignition. Only use these solvents in a well-ventilated area and follow all safety precautions and instructions listed on the product label. Material Safety Data Sheets for GE Sealants & Adhesives products are available upon request. Similar information for solvents and other chemicals you choose to use with GE products should be obtained from your suppliers. When solvents are used, proper safety precautions must be observed.

NOTE: There is nothing that will dissolve silicone. If reapplying silicone to the area, remove the old sealant. Then clean the area with a disinfectant if mold or mildew is present, apply rubbing alcohol. Let dry before re-applying silicone.

NOTE: Do not use soap to clean surfaces to be sealed because silicone will not adhere to surfaces covered with any soap scum.