muriatic acid
 

is it ok to spray a 10% mix of muratic acid and water on hull to clean. A guy across the lake said he cleans his with it. Another down the way said it not good for gel coat. I would believe it to be ok since it is used to clean rust, lime and, calcium deposits. Never hurts to ask first.:punch_out:

My dad had an old Sea Ray that he left in the water all season. We'd periodically pull it out and clean the bottom with a 50/50 solution of Muratic acid and water. He kept that boat 14 years and never had a problem with the gel coat. In fact, when he traded it in, the dealer said that was the best looking boat of that vintage he knew of at the time. Just make sure to fully rinse the bottom after using it. It'll also cause premature rust on the trailer, but not too bad if you rinse it really well and keep it waxed after every cleaning. The acid works great, but it's nasty stuff. I seriously doubt it causes any harm to fiberglass gelcoat, and it's still the method I'd choose since it's easier than most cleaners.

I used it on one side. I sprayed it om scrubed it down and only took off a little bit. I didit again, scrubed it and let it set for a few minutes. Worked really good. It came off with a bright white finish. I'm going to do the other side tonite. the side bumper needs some foolin' with to get it off.

where can i get some of this stuff? Also will it take off oxidation?
Thanks
Clint

You can find it at most home improvement stores, even Wal Mart I believe.

No, it won't take off oxidation. That's best left to a polish and wax. Meguire's boat restoration kit has some great reviews from people on this site. I used it on one side (it was getting late in the day, and I had to get it back in the water) and thought it worked good. Unfortunately, it takes a LONG time. Imagine washing your boat, then waxing it 3 times (It's a 3 step process)!!!!

thanks for the response. The first year I owned my boat I took it to the body shop and they got most of the oxidation off just a few spots left underneath where you can't see. Just annoying to me.

If you want to neutralize the acid after using it, especially on the trailer, just mix some baking soda and water together. When it stops foaming the acid will be neutral and a clean water rinse is all you need.