I've methodically, maniacally applied stripper to the upstairs bathroom bead board over the past few weeks. In the morning before work, I slather on the thick, goopy orange smelling stuff to about 5-6 boards. By the end of the work day, the prehistoric vinyl adhesive clumps have softened up enough to scrap off. Most mornings, however, I totally forget, and end up slapping my forehead when I get to work.
After many weeks, I. AM. FINALLY. DONE. STRIPPING. BEAD BOARD. For anyone else refinishing bead board or other wood that's recovering from hideous vinyl panels? Go get yourself two wire brushes, a hard one and a soft one. You're going to need them for all the bits of goo you can't get off with your scraper.
The next step? Use an orbital sander to get the last bits of adhesive off and make a nice, smooth surface for the primer.