We use a paint scraper in 1″ on those older rigs. The original install was a wrench we pulled through the rub rail with the rope through the nut hole. Though that older rub rail is usually too stiff for that application. We also have used a wooden block that was like a 1 1/2″ x 3/4″ thick and cut in a wedge, with a length of about 9″ that was cut on an angle to wedge the rub rail open, then the rope could be slipped in behind it. This method is harder though does work. We would try a box end wrench first and new rope. The paint scraper is more like a 1″ chisel pointed putty knife and we slowly work that rope in with it. If you immediately replace it with new rope after removal, it often goes in very easily by comparison. If you wait the gap closes some. BCB
.
