Restoration Question

[Panther2006]

Hello all

Myself and the young fellow, have just purchased a 79 Crestliner Curcader 770 and have started the restoration Process. We plan to replace all the interior coverings and change the colour of the boat. My question is " Should we use a coloued Gelcoat or can we use Paint"? We have to redo the Gelcoat on the bottom anyway, the older gelcoat is chipped. Also " Is there a Spray on type Gelcoat out there that I can use or do I have to spread it on" ?

Cheers

 

[allpoints360]

Re: Restoration Question

Should we use a coloued Gelcoat or can we use Paint

You can do either, but the preparation will be the important step in both. Once the prep is done, most here will probably agree that paint is easier, though it is a compromise.

Is there a Spray on type Gelcoat out there that I can use or do I have to spread it on

Gel is best applied by spray, but I don't think it comes in a spray can. That's because it must be catalyzed to start the hardening process.

Post some pics if you can.

Good luck.

 

[bigredinohio]

Re: Restoration Question

Just to add to allpoints360's post that gel coat is a polyester based product and is air inhibited meaning it needs to be sealed from air to cure hard. There is a wax additive needed but from what I read here, it's a long shot for re-applying gel to come out nice. Too thick or too thin in application or dilution with acetone will cause problems such as spider cracks or blisters. It is an option that I still may explore but I'm leaning closer to paint everyday.

 

[Panther2006]

Re: Restoration Question

Thanks for the input guys. If I decide to paint , what would I use to fill in the chipped Gelcoat that is already there.

Keep your opinion coming it give's me something to research and consider.

thanks again

 

[Panther2006]

Re: Restoration Question

Thanks for the input guys. If I decide to paint , what would I use to fill in the chipped Gelcoat that is already there.

Keep your opinion coming it give's me something to research and consider.

thanks again

maybe I could fill with resin and sand, then paint.

 

[allpoints360]

Re: Restoration Question

maybe I could fill with resin and sand, then paint.

Sand the edges of the "chips" then use filler or putty to fill. Then sand again. Repeat as necessary.

Good luck.

 

[Panther2006]

Re: Restoration Question

Sand the edges of the "chips" then use filler or putty to fill. Then sand again. Repeat as necessary.

Good luck.

When you say Filler or putty. What do you nean, Body filler has in Automotive Body work type!!!!! .

 

[Panther2006]

Re: Restoration Question

Bump

 

[allpoints360]

Re: Restoration Question

Panther, Depending of the size of the chip, you can use different fillers. The larger the chip, the stronger filler you should use. For example, if you have a inch sized chip or larger with some depth, you might use a reinforced filler like duraglass or bondo with short hair. If it's not deep, you can use the marine putty (the kind you add hardener to) or even automotive filler from the auto parts store. Neither of of these will shrink much as they cure.

If the chips are not deep at all and just surface gelcoat chip, you can mix gelcoat with cabosil to make a filler. This type filler tends to shrink quite a bit, so don't use for the deep stuff.

Post some pics of your issue.

Good luck.