Gelcoat Finish

[GoBucks]

The finish on my 2006 LSV looks like new on most of the boat, but on the sides near the back just below the rub rail, the finish appears to be 'drying out' for lack of better words. You can see what looks like waterspots. It is the same on both sides. Any suggestions? How can I tell if it is the finish or just needs a nice cleaning and wax job.

[shulaj]

Could it be the bumpers rubbing??

[Buttafewcoe]

I'd like to 'wheel' my '04 out over the winter. Does anyone have a methodology, like low speed buffer and a particular kind of paste?
.
B

[Nafplio]

I have a few scratches I want to get rid off. I've collected some info but have not put it to use yet:

http://continuouswave.com/ubb/Forum3/HTML/004078.html

http://www.carcraft.com/howto/926/index.html

http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/messages/65921/282492.html

[Buttafewcoe]

Interesting reading. I think I have a plan.
.
B

[MasterMind3002]

Butta,

I had a few scratches on my Outback. A light rubbing compound and a foam pad on a buffer takes them right out. Just don't buff too long in one spot............heat is the enemy and a buffer can burn thru gelcoat or leave a burn mark.

No buffing for me this fall. I traded my 07 for an 08. Now the only problem I have is what colors to order....... :D

[Buttafewcoe]

Thanks for the input M&M..I'll keep it in mind.
.
B

[Tyger]

To the OP (and every one else) Gel Gloss is your friend. I would much rather use this on gel coat than any wax.

I've been able to find it most places that sell a variety of cleaning supplies (Wal-Mart comes to mind) or order online at gel-gloss.com.

I use it on my fiberglass showers occassionally and the finish lasts quite a long time (a couple years) and makes cleaning much easier. On gel coated boats it does a phenomenal job of giving it a good shine and protecting it from sun, stains, etc. Depending on how much time you spend in the water, you will have to apply more often, but with normal use, once/season should be sufficient.

Note that it will make gel coat quite slippery, especially at first, so use with caution on any areas of your boat where people are prone to slip already (although most modern boats have non-skid surfaces everywhere you would need them anyway).

[Sled491]

I used to use Gel Gloss on my black shower in my first house, worked well at removing water spots and such, and as stated was very slippery after. But I didn't find it lasting all that long. I've also never heard of it being used on a boat but I don't see why it wouldn't. You can get it at Home Depot in the plumbing dept.