quick prep question

[eclipseturbors]

I've been working on my 1959 Span/Sea King boat for awhile. The boat isn't worth much and I've been working under a pretty tight budget. I've decided on Rustoleum paint to probably roll and roll for the bottom of the boat hull. I have a number of random scratches and some crazing on the bottom of the boat. Its 50 years old and to be expected. How has everyone sanded their gel coat to prep for primer? Also, there is are some areas about the size of a half dollar where the gel coat has chipped off. Should I just use some CSM to help build up those areas or just just use a filler? I have some marine filler with fiberglass hair. The boat is only 14' long and will remain on a trailer for most of the time. I live in the Missouri, so salt water is not really going to be a problem. This is still the best boating board around. Period.

 

[oops!]

Re: quick prep question

if you are on a tight budget......fix the old gellcoat. it will be cheaper than painting.

you can add a product called marine tex to fill the chips.

or mix up a gellcoat paste and repair the damaged areas.
if you sand your boat with 400 grit,,,,then go progressively up to 1500 grit....the use a buffing compound like farecla or 3m....your boat will look like new with out painting it.

to paint....scuff at 320

 

[eclipseturbors]

Re: quick prep question

Thanks. I plan on just painting it because it will now be white instead of black. I have never messed with gel coat, but I may take it on on the next project. It seems very durable and probably is worth the work. Right now, I'm pressed for time, space (wife wants her car back in the garage), and money. I'll knock it down with 320 and prime. Thanks again!

 

[Yacht Dr.]

Re: quick prep question

I'll knock it down with 320 and prime. Thanks again!

I would go with a bit more bite then 320... say 180 ? Whatever the can says on the prep

YD.