Resurfacing hull

bowfront26 · 03 March 2017, 04:06

I am restoring a 1987 5.4 searider. everything is in good shape, the hull just needs bottom paint removed. It's peeling off in spots but I think I either need to pressure wash it off or use a sander. If I go the sanding route, can anyone recommend a grit to use? I want to remove the bottom paint and top layer of flow coat (or whatever it's painted with).

Once that is complete I'll have an idea of what is needed. Maybe fill some scratches and then redo the flow coat? I'm new to this so any advice is appreciated. Perhaps just sanding and polishing will be enough.

Phil M · 03 March 2017, 11:37

I'd start with a pressure washer and then to for a solvent to get rid of it without abrasives if you can. With mine I used hammerite thinners and wiped the old anti-foul off with a rag. Sanding will lead to a lot of work, particularly if you aren't re-painting as you'll need to re-polish to get a decent finish again.

On the repair areas of my hull I started with 400 grit (where needed) then moved on to 800 then 1200, taking out the deeper scratches from the 800. Finally polished it with Farecla profile 300 cutting paste to remove the 1200 scratches. If you do sand, ,make sure you don't take off too much gel and end up having to flow coat.

Phil M

office888 · 03 March 2017, 12:17

Klean Strip | Premium Stripper

Use this.

bowfront26 · 03 March 2017, 16:32

Thanks Phil. I'll try the pressure washer first. Probably best to tapenoff the tubes where they meet the hull to avoid any damage to them?

Office888, thanks for the rec. I read the description and it states the following...

Do not use on linoleum, plastic, rubber, asphalt tile, fiberglass or other synthetics. Use over a small area because health and safety risks will increase dramatically when used over large areas.

I assume you have used the product with good results?

office888 · 03 March 2017, 17:15

Quote:

Originally Posted by bowfront26

Thanks Phil. I'll try the pressure washer first. Probably best to tapenoff the tubes where they meet the hull to avoid any damage to them?

Office888, thanks for the rec. I read the description and it states the following...

Do not use on linoleum, plastic, rubber, asphalt tile, fiberglass or other synthetics. Use over a small area because health and safety risks will increase dramatically when used over large areas.

I assume you have used the product with good results?

It'll soften the resin if you leave it on for too long. Rinse well.