When I purchased my Davanti Z235 last fall, one of the things I wanted to do to it was remove the bottom paint, as it was UUUGGGGLLLYYY!
I did a fair bit or research on sanding it off, having it soda blasted, and also looked at using paint stripper.
After getting some quotes for sanding and blasting, $$$ I decided I would take a shot at paint remover. I decided to give Circa 1850 Soft strip a try.
http://www.swingpaints.com/1820.htm It contains no methylene chloride or MEK, and is environmentally friendly. I tested a small area first, to make sure it had no effect on the gelcoat itself.
While it did take a few applications to remove it, and you have to leave each application on for a while, [I used a paint tray and roller] I'm pleased with the results. Once the paint was softened up by the stripper, I used a pressure washer to remove it. Like I said, it did take a few applications over a few days, but I think the results are pretty good. There are still a few spots that need to be removed, but they will sand out pretty easy. I then plan on touching up the gelcoat in a few spots, and making her shine again.
Here are some before and after pics.
Removing Bottom Paint
