Gelcoat problems
 

Sorry if this has already been covered.

My '96 Shabah is kept outdoors on a trailer with a cover that comes down to the rubbing strip. I have not so far carried out any maintenance on the gelcoat. I have two main problems.

Over the years the ivory coloured gelcoat has become flat down the sides from the rubbing strip downwards. It is dull and has become a lighter colour. It is fine underneath and around the transom and bow areas.

The second problem is that where the gelcoat still has its original gloss, it has become stained in places - it goes a kind of yellow/brown colour and looks like water stains that have run down the side of the hull. These stains will not wash out.

I would really like some advice on products that will remove the satining and return the gelcoat to its former glossy glory. Preferably products that are easily available in the UK. Would T-Cut and Turtle wax do the job? Is it a good idea to use a power polisher?

Many thanks

Grommett

Gelcoat problems
 

Yes, polisher with some polishing compound and a good marine wax after its polished. Should look like new again. 6 inch random orbital with an orange pad to polish and a black pad to finish.

Re: Gelcoat problems
 

DON'T I repeat DON'T use T cut it will leave a yellow taint in the gelcoat!

Use G3 Advanced Liquid Compound on a slow mop then a good marine wax.
Where about's in the Uk are you?
I didn't think your house looked state side :rolling_laugh:

Re: Gelcoat problems
 

Hi Andy

I am just down the road from you in Bournemouth. The house looks a little different now, been spending all my time and money on it so boat restoration has taken a bit of a back seat until now.

Re: Gelcoat problems
 

Maybe we'll be able to get together some time.
I'm on a couple of other UK sportsboat forums. (not talking about Boatmad by the way:shakehead:)
One of them has quite a few south coast members, infact we do an annual Poole meet.

Was looking at launching from Cobbs until they put their prices up this year.
Also looking at launching from Weymouth and doing Lulworth cove and up to dancing ledge at some time

Re: Gelcoat problems
 

I use Cobbs quay, expensive but convenient and we dont go out that often. They are doing free Saturday night visitor moorings at the moment. Not been to Lulworth yet, but Worth Matravers is lovely though you need good conditions, went last weekend and got VERY wet.:eek_animated:
IOW on a good day and looking forward to the Bournemouth Air Show at the end of the month.

Re: Gelcoat problems
 

Farecla gelcoat restorer then G3 or G4 followed by wax. Use an electric foam pad on a mop, you will get it back to a mirror finish, just invest some time

Re: Gelcoat problems
 

Re: Gelcoat problems
 

That sailnet article is an awesome find! Thanks for posting that link!

Re: Gelcoat problems
 

I'd recommend a copy/paste of that page to your personal hard drive so you have the info when you need it. Who knows it that page gets pulled from the sail forum...

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