[Paul F]

I have a few minor scratches in the gelcoat. You can't feel them, so they're not very deep.

I tried a polishing wax, but they won't go away. Any suggestions?

[WetWilly]

Hi Paul F,

Get some "3M polishing compound" or Meguires Fiberglass Restorer and an orbital or rotary buffer (work slowly and keep the surface "wet" when using the rotary to prevent burning the gelcoat), work the area gradually and the scratches will come out. Then use a good wax over the same area.

WetWilly

[95Z212]

Since we're on the subject, what wax should you use to keep a boat from 'chalking?' I have the boat looking spotless until it goes in the water!

[aquaknot]

I agree with WetWilly about the 3m rubbing compound, used it several times with great results. I use maguirs flagship wax every couple weeks to keep the look.

[Paul F]

It will be a small area, so I'll probably hand rub.

There's no chance of damaging the finish? Would this work on my truck's finish?

[WetWilly]

Hi Paul,

I wouldn't recomend the Fiberglass restorer on your truck but yes, the 3M "polishing" compound would work on your trucks paint and check out Meguires, they have excellent products for restoring and protecting your automotive paint too.

Originally Posted by Paul F

There's no chance of damaging the finish?

If you are not familiar with using any of these products, then YES, you can cause a lot of damage to the surface. There is a lot of information on the net and I'm sure if you contact the various companies, they could give you advice on how to use their products to restore the finish too.

Probably the best advice I can give is, "be patience". Take your time, use medium or low speeds while keeping the buffer moving, keep the work surface wet (don't let the polish or compound get dry while using the buffer or hand pad) and don't apply too much pressure, let the buffer and compounds do the work. For beginners, a random obital buffer/polisher will help reduce the occurrence of swirl marks.

Well good luck,
WetWilly

[daveraymyers]

Hi Paul,
As a fairly new Mariah owner, I went to our local West Marine shop and they sold me Star brite Premium Marine Polish with PTEF. They told me that another customer was so happy with the product that he put it on his truck becuase of the sprinkler was putting those nasty water spots on his truck. After puting this wax on his truck, the water spots just wipe off with water - I was sold.

I applied this to my entire boat and trailer about 3 weeks ago. So far, two full day trips and all I have to do is wash with water and everything comes off, and the finish still feels like it has a good coat of wax on it.

Keep you posted on how long it lasts, but so far so good!

-Dave