paint removal

[bill146]

Hello, <br /> I have a 1979 Grady White center console. It has been painted inside and out by a previous owner. The paint topside is all chipping and pealing. It looks like it was gel coated originally. Anyway, i was wanting to know how i can remove the paint without damaging the gell coat under it. Also there is little stress cracks on the bow like the boat was ran hard in chop. What can do about that. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: paint removal

Bill, There are marine paint removers (gel type) that claim not to harm the gel coat. However, I would expect the appearance of the gel coat to be less than desireable, or it would never have been painted in the first place.<br /><br />The stress cracks in the bow happen on some boats. You can fill them with fairing compound and paint. If you run hard, they will come back.

 

[bill146]

Re: paint removal

Thanks, I am sure that the gel coat is in bad shape but at least i can either re coat it or paint it correctly. The boat is an old one but i like the way it handle rough water. It is heavy and is wide. I really dont want to speand a lot to make it look better so paint and labor is fine for me. Right now i also need to re-wire the motor. Wires are pretty corroded. Thanks again

 

[BillP]

Re: paint removal

Wait until you price paint remover for fiberglass...it's big bucks and makes sanding, priming and painting look aok.

 

[Bondo]

Re: paint removal

and makes sanding, priming and painting look aok.

Ayuh.......<br />That's where you're going to end up Anyway............

 

[Winger Ed.]

Re: paint removal

If its peeling, the surface prep. was probably pretty marginal when it was paited. You need to get all that off, and back down to the original jelcoat or your new paint job will peel off with the other.<br /><br />If it was me, I'd go after it with a power sander and 3M dry sand paper- probably 180 grit, the gold colored stuff. Its high, but does a good job and lasts pretty well.

 

[bill146]

Re: paint removal

I thought i would end up painting it again. I will have to paint the entire boat. Any suggestions on what type of paint to use on the outside and what type for the inside. I want to use sand or something like it on the deck for no slipping. Also it will be used in saltwater as well. Thanks for the help so far. I will get some photos as I go. It is my first boat and i wanted to do it myself anyway.