So, what exactly is the "Gel Coat?"

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bluediverdave

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Feb 17, 2005
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3
Alright, just became the owner of a 1973 Glastron V-156 Sportster. I've been working hard on it and have managed to fix all the electrical, mechanical, live well plumbing and even some upholstery work. However, I've never been too good at the paint thing. This boat had a thick green paint right at the waterline. The original colors are white and orange. The colors are great and I want to return the boat to that look. I've sanded off all of the green paint using a pad type sander tool on my drill. What I'm trying to figure out now is did I just ruin my gel coat? It still seems shiny when I wipe it with some water so I was hoping that a little rubbing compound and some buffing will finish it right up...? I stumbled onto this site and have read a little more information and now I'm a little worried that I may have damaged the "gel coat." To be honest, I figured that was on the surface and would be something I would have to put back on or pay someone to do (hopefully not). Could someone please bring me up to speed and help me finish this beautiful boat? Thanks so much.<br /><br />Dave.
 
Realgun

Realgun

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Jul 31, 2003
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2,484
Re: So, what exactly is the "Gel Coat?"

I would try in a small patch 400 grit paper then wet sand with 600 then 1000 or even 1500 then polishing compound then wax. If you just scratched up the gel coat when you removed the paint this should work. Gel coat is supposed to be about 10-40 mils thick. 2 mils is a sheet of paper I believe. (I need help here guys)
 
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Laddies

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Sep 10, 2004
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12,218
Re: So, what exactly is the "Gel Coat?"

sounds right to me Realgun if that don't work and the color is still good but won't shine I know a couple guys that clear coated their hulls and they looked very nice and seem to be holding up alright, but we are in fresh water--Bob
 
Bondo

Bondo

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Re: So, what exactly is the "Gel Coat?"

The original colors are white and orange.
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When a boat is built, in the mold, the Gelcoat is the Color part of it,.... It's a polyester based resin.......<br /><br />The green stuff you sanded off was probably bottom paint... Unless your docking, you don't need it........<br />If the boat is still the Color it's supposed to be, the gelcoat is still there... thinner, but there..... If there are Dark Spots coming thru, That's the Fiberglass underneath the gelcoat.....<br />It can be repaired..... And, Yes, It's a Pain...
 
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bluediverdave

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Feb 17, 2005
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Re: So, what exactly is the "Gel Coat?"

Great Bondo, that's what I wanted to hear. I have not gone through deep enough to bring out any dark spots...just more white and orange. It was bottom paint and no, I don't plan on having it moored or docked anytime soon. I've got most of it off, just taking some time with cordless drills and rust/paint remover bits (the batteries keep wearing out). I'm up to 3 drills now so I think I'll be able to finish it up tommorrow. I also finished making seats for the holes in the bow today and the splash gaurd in front of the motor. I'd like to find the original seat type if you can point me in a not to expensive direction, that would be great. They were originally the type of front to back (2 seats) that could lay out and sat really low to the floor. I've mounted some petastal seats in there now but wondered if I could find those original ones or not. <br /><br />Thanks so much for all your guys great advice. <br /><br />One last thing, if my floor is a bit "spongey" in a few places...is there any way to repair it without having to tear it all up? <br /><br />Thanks again.<br /><br />Dave
 
flashback

flashback

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Joined
Jun 28, 2002
Messages
3,987
Re: So, what exactly is the "Gel Coat?"

As usual, Bondo hit the nail squarely on the head with the gelcoat issue... :D .. just be careful YOU don,t wear thru what gelcoat is left, that's an old boat and half of it most likly is gone already, as far as seats go, most any of the marine stores such as West, Overton's, etc.. sell replacement back to backs.. but they won't match the original colors in most cases. But if that doesn't matter, then you have many choices...in fact, check the mega mall here on iboats, Im sure they have some also....... :) :) ... Soft spots in the floor is NOT a good thing, although quite common in old boats..The only way I know to fix it right is to replace the floor. and the only way to find the extent of the rot is to tear into it...good luck......do a searh on this site for soft floors and you will find a good day's reading......
 
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lawyertob

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Oct 7, 2004
Messages
201
Re: So, what exactly is the "Gel Coat?"

Originally posted by bluediverdave:<br /> . . . . I also finished making seats for the holes in the bow today and the splash gaurd in front of the motor. I'd like to find the original seat type if you can point me in a not to expensive direction, that would be great. They were originally the type of front to back (2 seats) that could lay out and sat really low to the floor. I've mounted some petastal seats in there now but wondered if I could find those original ones or not. . . .
Click to expand...
Dave,<br /><br /> I have an orange and white 76 Glastron 186. I took out all of the original seats. I am putting in a pedistal for the helm and a replacement Wise lounge seat on the other side. Also putting folding seats in the back by the splashwell. I still haven't decided what I am going to do with the bow seats, but I am leaning towards making the bow a fishing platform. I think the pedistal for the helm is better because the old seats were so low you had to sit on the seatback to see.<br /><br />Just my $0.02 worth,<br />Joe
 
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jimmythekid

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Sep 21, 2004
Messages
331
Re: So, what exactly is the "Gel Coat?"

i too had soft spot in the floor, click my link and you will see what I ended up doing. I am glad i did.<br /><br />Boats tend to rot from the bottom up I think.
 
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