Sun baked - whats the best way to fix?

[Drew in B'ham]

My new old boat was stored outside for the last 5 years. The place under the trolling motor is beautiful, the rest of the dark trim is kind of chalky and dull. I washed the boat upon getting her home and that made a world of difference on the overall appearance, but the trim is still dull. I tried a test wax with turtle wax in one little area, a little better, but still not good. What should I try? Wet sanding with 1000 grit? Buffing?
I love my new boat and want it to shine like a new one.

 

[Lion hunter]

Re: Sun baked - whats the best way to fix?

It may never shine like new again but wet sanding is probably your best bet. Use 600 or a 1000 depending on the amount of oxidation. I have use 600 and it never did any harm when wet. I wrap it around a wet sponge. Makes a good sanding block and keep the paper wetter longer.

 

[Mischief Managed]

Re: Sun baked - whats the best way to fix?

Sanding is your best bet. Don't limit yourself to one grit. Sanding is supposed to be done in stages, ending with the finest grit. Find out the minimum grit required to get rid of the chalk, start there and then work your way up to the grit that gives you a shine you are happy with. I'd try 1000, 1500, and 2000 grit, then polish it and wax it when you are done. Keep it utterly soaked while you sand.

 

[Burtonair01]

Re: Sun baked - whats the best way to fix?

I just had my boat sanded,(with 2 different grits) treated and polished, it looks brand new. It was slipped for 7 years without ever being polished, it was oxidized super bad. So I say sanding is definately the best way to go if you want it looking new again. It is possible for sure!