Re: Questions on sanding boat "prep work"
I am now on the final stage of what you're doing. <br />I have sanded the original gel coat to a dull finish using 150 grit sand paper. I used orbital sander to do this job.<br />Small hair like scratches I sanded down all the way untill it disapeared. <br />I used 2 part epoxy filler to fill dip scratches and cracks. <br />Sanding to a smooth finish is the key to good job. <br />I used white Pre-Kote Interlux primer. I used foam roller to apply primer on the finished sides of the boat. Primer is very good and will even cover dark colors. My boat was red and I saw no trace of red after I was done with primering.<br /><br />Now, when your primer is dry what you need to do is give it a nice sand using 220 grit paper. <br />Don't worry if you sand all the way through primer to a bare finish on edges. What you want to get is a smooth finish on primer. <br />You want to get rid of "orange peel" feel of the primer. If you do that you will have less work with paint coats. <br /><br />When you're done with this, whipe all surface with acetone and follow with a tack cloth.<br /><br />I don't know how you're going to paint your boat, as there are a few options. I spray painted mine.<br />After you're done with a first coat, use wet sand paper 320 grit to give it a little sand. <br />Do not sand for too long in one place. I wouldn't use power sander or sand block. I used a half a sheet of sand paper folded and applied light pressure to it with the palm of my hand. It's just my preference, but it's easier to control it this way. You wouldn't be able to feel how much to sand with a sand block. Your paper should be wet all the time , so as the sanding surface. <br />If you hear sand paper squeeck, it needs water. <br /><br />Before the second coat you need to wipe surface with tack cloth again. <br />Now you're ready to paint second coat. <br />After the second coat, lightly wet sand the boat with 600 grit sand paper and follow up with polishing. <br /><br />I hope it helps. <br />It also depends on what type of paint you will use. <br />I used Interlux Brightside Polyurethane paint (single part). <br />To thin it down to the right thickness you need a special solvant.<br />Iinterlux 333 if you are using roller to paint.<br />Interlux 216 if you will be spraying.<br /><br />And lastly, I just need to warn you:<br />Do not try to use a $70 dollar HomeDepo electrical spray gun. It will not do the job right. <br /><br />I can't stress this enough, Sanding!!! is the key to a job well done. If properly prepared surface is painted with a spray gun or a roller, you should get excellent results. <br /><br />I hope it helps <br />Best of luck,<br />Lenny
<br /><br />Lenny