gel coat finsh

[circle hook]

Hello I am looking to polish my boat the gel coat is all dull what is the best type of wax or cleaner and what is the best way to apply I have a 24 foot grady White Thanks Bob

 

[NHGuy]

Re: gel coat finsh

If it's chalked up try a section with automotive rubbing compound followed by wax. Or if its really dead you could wet sand with very fine paper like 1000 grit, then 2000, then compound. then wax. Use a block on flat surfaces, that makes the work quicker because it increases you paper to surface contact over holding the sandpaper in you hand. Make sure to try it on a hidden spot first.
If you want to see how to wet sand and use a polisher go on you tube and watch how it's done. Pay attention to any information that teaches how to avoid swirl marks.

 

[Art Bernard]

Re: gel coat finsh

I found some stuff that was a combo rubbing compound and wax, forget who makes it, but it did a good job on an old boat I had. Got it at a marine store. Use an orbital buffer to put it on, swap pads than take it off.

Art

 

[partskenn]

Re: gel coat finsh

Both Maguires and West Marine have a combo "color restorer/ wax) that work pretty good. Probably other brands too.

 

[dsiekman]

Re: gel coat finsh

3M Onestep. Great stuff. I put it on with a 1600 rpm polisher (not orbital). Put it on and keep buffing until it is gone. I did 60' of hull sides below the rub rail in about two and a half hours.

 

[jimdogg1269]

Re: gel coat finsh

i used the 3M cleaner/wax on my 18ft bayliner,, it done a good job, i done it by hand, "wax on, wax off",,lol

 

[gdombroski]

Re: gel coat finsh

3M one step is great, but to make the job easier and results better first remove the old wax. Easiest way I found is with West Marine pink boat soap (others probably work as well?) mixed in a high concentration (that's want they recommend for wax removal)applied with a scrub pad such as auto stores carry grey one is what I used. You will be amazed on how much oxidation, etc. that will be removed in this process.

 

[The Great Escape II]

Re: gel coat finsh

Yacht Bright Buff Magic