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How do I keep 26 year old Black gel coat looking good? Boat was a trailer queen when I bought it ten years ago and looked new. It still looks good but is fading on the top where it is exposed to the sun. I have a shop now and would like to spend some time/ money getting her back in shape. Any suggestions are appreciated!
SSMVEGAS
The new guy


Posts: 2
Joined: Jun 09, 2010 10:12 am
Location: Seattle Washington
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Wet sand the gel starting with 600 if it's real bad then work up to 2000 then buff with a wool pad and buffing compound then buff again with a foam pad and a lighter finish cut. After your arms are ready to fall off wax with a good wax and keep it waxed to keep the shine.

This is my boat that has new gel but just went through the buffing process.

Do I need to wet sand by hand or can I use a 6" grinder with pads? What are the best compounds to use?

I like 3M they have always worked well

if it's not too far gone you can get by with just a good compound

No...it's not to far gone, just begining to see some cloudy areas and want to take care of it before it gets to bad!!!

Try just buffing a spot and see how it turns out. I agree 3m is all I will use. If you need to sand do it by hand it will go fairly quick.

I have had real good luck with 3M "Marine Restorer & Wax". Its a 1 step process. Part # 09005. I usually give it a good wax coat after for good measure though.

77 VIPER- Your boat looks great and I can hardly wait to see it done! I have some 3M Restorer that I'll try just need to get a good buffer. Do you guys have a preference when it comes to pads/ wheels?

I think a lot of that is just by hand. Be careful with a wheel.

Gel is a lot thicker than paint or clear coat, that's why you can get away with 600 if it's bad. We have a young kid working as a cleaner for us and after buffing a couple glass boats he tried to buff a aluminum boat and found out quick he needs to be careful.