Bayliner under seat storage area paint restoration some cracks in paint how to repair

[bmowers]

Hi,
I have a 2008 Bayliner 175BR that has an under seat storage area on the starboard side that needs the paint completely overhauled in my opinion. This project is right up my alley but I would like some advice on how to proceed. View the attached photos as you will see that the battleship gray paint is cracked and discolored. I would like to overhaul the area and make it look like new again. I want it to look just like factory new glossy gray.
1.) How can I fill the hairline cracks?
2.) What paint, epoxy etc do I use to make it look new again?
3.) Do I need to sand it down first?

Click on each single image twice to see the higher resolution detail if you are interested.

Thanks,
Brian from Howell Michigan

 

[Woodonglass]

It's prolly not paint but rather Gel Coat. You should obtain a Gel Coat repair kit and then use a Dremel tool with a V-bit to clean out all those cracks. Then clean well with Acetone. Now comes the Hard Part! Getting an exact match to that color. Since it's been under the seat and not subject to UV sun fading it might not be to bad. You might check with bayliner to get the codes and then you can get the Gel Coat mfg to match the color for you. Mix up the paste and apply. Then Sand, Buff and Polish.

 

[Bondo]

3.) Do I need to sand it down first?

Ayuh,.... Pretty much Anything, 'n Everything We do in this forum begins with Sandin',......

Many times it also ends with Sandin',....

It does look like gelcoat, that's cracked, 'n delaminating or startin' too,...

I'd hit it with 80 or 100grt on a da sander, 'n slather rustoleum enamel of yer color choice with a brush, 'n/ or a 4" roller, 'n call it a day,....

100% Original is a Very high expectation,.....

 

[gm280]

All the suggestions given above is good information. But I would make absolutely sure that all those cracks are indeed only in the gel coat and not into any rotted wood underneath those cracks before refinishing it again. If you know for certain that the area is solid rot free material, then pick your solution already given and have a great time refinishing it again...

 

[bmowers]

I was able to use Rustoleum Garage floor 2 part epoxy (gray). This stuff looks great and is really tough. I have used it for years (but not on boats). I had one set of gray product in the garage unused. For the small compartment I used 1/10 of the gallon mix. Mixed only what I needed then sealed the two part cans up and they should last until needed. I used DAP Plastic wood on the cracks in the gel coat. This stuff works rather quickly sealing cracks and can be sanded in 30 minutes. After a light sanding with 100 grit I vacuumed the compartment, wiped it again then painted the Rustoleum for a total of 4 coats. Done!