Remove hardware or not?

[Gromulin]

I was replacing the bow light last night, and took a scotch-brite pad to clean the gunk out from underneath and - wow. The gel coat is really dirty. I couldn't believe how much whiter it was where I had scrubbed.

I was already planning on doing a complete go-over this winter with rubbing compound, polishing compound and several coats of 3M wax. I was going to just work around the cleats, logo etc. but now I'm wondering if it's worth it to remove as much as possible to get it nice and bright all the way under.

The cleats I'm not so worried about. The DORAL logo on the side worries me. Can't tell (yet) if it's glued on or bolted through the hull.

I've got some gel coat repairs at the keel, and some oxidation all over, and I'm not planning on doing this every year...just would hate to crack any fiberglass removing / replacing hardware.

 

[Mark42]

Re: Remove hardware or not?

I wouldn't bother unless you think water is getting in around the cleats, etc. Then it would be worth the time to remove, clean and re-seal with 4200.

 

[bankfisher]

Re: Remove hardware or not?

I would pull them off if they are not too hard to remove and replace. Just the fact that if you are scrubbing next to them they will reach out and bust a knuckle

But if they are a PITA to remove then just be careful around them