Question on speedo's and restoring gel-coat appearance

[braindead0]

Are most speedo's in the marine environment generally compatible (sending unit - display)? I've got a 1968 Sea Star, haven't even had it out yet (this weekend!) but I'm thinking about a complete redo on the dash and installing a tach, which will no way match the current speedometer style. I have a feeling I'll have to buy a complete setup (new sending unit and speedo) but I thought I'd ask!.<br /><br />Of course the fiberglass is very oxidized, and the previous owner painted most of the bottom (not with bottom paint thankfully). What I think I need to do is get some rubbing compounds (in a variety of grits and some wool bonnets for my angle-grinder and give it a whirl. I'll probably start with the lighest and work my way up. If an agressive rubbing compound can't clean it up, I suppose it's off to 600grit sandpaper (or 1000grit?).<br /><br />Are there any good resources for gel-coat repair? Or should I simply paint? <br /><br />As this boat is a trailer boat, can I get away with a topside paint for the bottom as well? I would think so, but figured I'd ask.<br /><br />Thanks!

 

[seasprite2112]

Re: Question on speedo's and restoring gel-coat appearance

Hey there I too have a Sea Star, 1969 15 footer. I am going to restore this one this winter and I have some similar issues as the speedometer is the huge square one. I also have a facotry compass. The biggest problem I have is the yellowing of the lense for the speedo, and the pitting of the chrome.<br /><br />Good luck and I was also wondering how that one is powered as I have a Chrysler 55hp

 

[Solittle]

Re: Question on speedo's and restoring gel-coat appearance

Go to the red search at the top of the page & enter paint as the search arguement. There are 200 posts for you to read.

 

[sloopy]

Re: Question on speedo's and restoring gel-coat appearance

You could replace all the gauges with new ones, They will look a lot better and have a warranty. You should also replace the sending units on the engine with the type recommended on the new instruments, You could also go for a gps.