how to remove a tank boot?

[Homunculus]

hi all,
i got my new tank a few days ago. i'd like to remove the boot since i rarely do boat dives, mostly shore dives. i tried to pull it off but it's impossible - there is not much to grab on. right now the tank is empty.
any advice?
should i put the tank in a warm / hot water so that the boot is softer?

 

[SteveAD]

take a piece of wood, place it against the top of the boot and gently rap it with a hammer working your way around the tank.

 

[Sharky1948]

rubber mallet!

 

[Walter]

Or you can just tap it off with a rubber mallet.

 

[Jeff Toorish]

Yup, rubber mallet.

 

[CompuDude]

Rubber mallet.

Although the piece of wood method keeps rubber streaks from getting on your tank, should you miss.

Combining the two methods and hitting the wood with the mallet works well also.

 

[Compressor]

Rubber mallet yes.
But keeping a boot protects the tank most of the time.

 

[SparticleBrane]

If you're someone who doesn't have a rubber mallet (such as myself), take a towel and cover the tank. Then take a hammer and tap off the tank boots. Never had any problems doing this myself.

 

[Racket]

Would it be prudent to soak it in hot water first?

 

[nadwidny]

Not necessary.