Get the old shine back in a 1972 Hydroswift

[Taylorsville]

How can i get this blue look new again?

 

[drewpster]

Re: Get the old shine back in a 1972 Hydroswift

If it is good shape you can buff it out. If it has cracks and needs repairs you can gel match the bad areas and buff. If it is like my boats, you might as well paint it because the surface is too far gone.

 

[idonthaveaname]

Re: Get the old shine back in a 1972 Hydroswift

Light compound, a buffer, elbow grease, and a good wax. That could bring back depending on the condition as said, but it probably won't last unless you was often. There are many commercial products out there but nothing lasts forever. Paint may be your only alternative, and it not that difficult to do...prep, brush, tip, and dry. I'd try a small area with the waxing, but would probably paint it...when it's warmer, of course.

 

[Taylorsville]

Re: Get the old shine back in a 1972 Hydroswift

I think paint is the way to go. I'm just not sure how to dot it.

 

[Yacht Dr.]

Re: Get the old shine back in a 1972 Hydroswift

I would try to compound/buff it first.. amazing what some good buffing will do for ya .

Boat looks in good shape mate overall..

YD.

 

[idonthaveaname]

Re: Get the old shine back in a 1972 Hydroswift

Anyone ever use Flitz?

http://www.flitz-polish.com/?leadsource=PS114&s_kwcid=TC|6221|flitz||S|e|5723575459&gclid=CKLvw9OIk6cCFQGe7QodMV0tdg

 

[drewpster]

Re: Get the old shine back in a 1972 Hydroswift

The guys who know me here know I like paint, however gelcoat is a more durable finish if you can restore it. Take a close look at it and see if there are allot of spider cracks and damage on the gelcoat. You can repair minor defects by matching the color of the old gelcoat and buff the whole boat out. But matching gelcoat can be a challenge.
You also want to consider how far you want to go with the finish. Some of us shoot for a show boat finish that is as flawless as ability will provide. Others just want to make the boat look new again, and still others just want to make it look "better" than it does now. It really depends on what you are shooting for.
Personally, I would go with paint if there is allot of damage to the original surface. I am by no means an expert, but I have not had great luck matching gelcoat colors. Also if the gelcoat is really old you run the risk of it just fading back out a short time after buffing it. Gelcoat has a life span and if it is too far gone paint is the best option in my opinion.
If you do decide to go with paint start by doing some research. There are allot of different paint systems out there. And just like everything else they vary in cost and effort to apply. As a general rule I always recommend using marine paints rather than automotive paint system on boats. Marine paints are designed for use on boats for good reason and there are ones designed for DIY painters.
Keep us informed, and let us know how we can help.

 

[sqbtr]

Re: Get the old shine back in a 1972 Hydroswift

Looks like it already has paint on it.

Can you get a closer pic of the bow?