What's Step #1 for Gelcoat Resto??

[cyber]

I've been pouring over numerous threads about refinishing oxidized gelcoat
and I can definitely say that it's "Clear As Mud"!!!!!!

So I've gone out and bought the 600-3000 RPM Buffer/Polisher,
a mixed package of 'bonnets', and Meguiars #49 Heavy-Duty
Oxidization Remover.

From what I have gleaned/been told, I should start w/ the 'imitation lambswool'
bonnet, but it seems to me that thing would 'swill' my
16 oz. bottle of 'goop' in a heartbeat! How far would I get with that??
At $15 a bottle I wanna get as much done in one sitting as possible!!

Not looking for a complete step-by-step here, I'll definitely continue
reading more. Just a few suggestions on how best to start out would
be greatly appreciated. I'll be taking lots of pics and will post
occasionally on my progress.

Thanx in advance, I really love this site!!!!!

 

[lowvlot]

Re: What's Step #1 for Gelcoat Resto??

I have an '87 Bayliner that was terribly oxidized. I took some 1000 wet sand and wet sanded the hull then used my buffer and a compound that removes oxidization then waxed.

 

[6meter]

Re: What's Step #1 for Gelcoat Resto??

Having been there several times, the best results that I have gotten was to 600/ 800/1000 dry sand then 1200/1500 wet sand with a soft sanding block. That should remove all the wax and oxidation from the gel coat. I know when I was sanding I was worried about sanding through the gel coat. Don't. Its thick. And after looking at my sandpaper, the dust was mostly grey, the oxidation and crap on top of the gel coat. I didn't get to the color til the 1000/1200 paper. Then use the buffer at slow speeds with the compound. It shouldn't drink your Meguiars that much. Keep your pad clean though.

 

[cyber]

Re: What's Step #1 for Gelcoat Resto??

Thanx-a-bunch Guys!!

You mention 'keep your pad clean'.......what do you use as a "dresser"??
(not sure if that's the proper term, I know it is for a grinding wheel)

 

[erikgreen]

Re: What's Step #1 for Gelcoat Resto??

First step? CLEAN the boat. Get all the grit, bird poop, salt, bits of grass and leaves, beer stains, lipstick, suntan lotion, and gunpowder residue off.

I use a power washer with a biodegradable cleaner plus a couple soft brushes and some rags to clean boats.

Start with a clean, grit free surface before you polish and wax... nothing sucks like grinding road pebbles into your gelcoat.

Erik

 

[westexasrepublic]

Re: What's Step #1 for Gelcoat Resto??

part 1- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWEE6SFUdpg
part 2- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=en-8SbhdF_k&feature=related

 

[Yacht Dr.]

Re: What's Step #1 for Gelcoat Resto??

ERm... West .. those links are for "repair" not restoring faded Gel..

Eric is right on with Washing the boat First .. then go for your resto..

You may or may not need to sand m8..It all depends on how hammerd or what kind of "waxes" are on your boat.

You need the tools which IMO would be step 2. You should have a Rotary buffer ( not an orbital ) .. A good Wool bonnet .. then some good compound/polish.

Just try a spot with just rubbing out .. You might be suprised.

As far as Gel being Thick .. welp that all depends from boat to boat. Normally it is thick but you dont know for sure. If its not thick enough to sand and polish then you would have to re-gel or Paint it to get results .. so dont worry about it for now

YD