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Michael_D

Michael_D

Professor (1,304)

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Submitted 295 days ago...

Baiting778

Baiting778

New User (1)

How do I gel coat a boat a completely different color than the original.

I bought an old boat hull that is in pretty good shape, but it is the most hideous color brown I have ever seen. I want to gel coat the boat white, or maybe another color(Haven't decided on a color yet). I have the boat flipped upside down and I am ready to sand all the paint off of it. What are the steps to stripping and gel coating a boat? What tools will I need? What materials will I need? Is gel coating my best option here?

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Answer 1 / 1 - Submitted 293 days ago...

Michael_D

Michael_D

Professor (1,304)

Surface prep of the gel-coat is very important. Once sanding is complete, a thorough wipe-down of all surfaces multiple times with acetone is required to get rid of all dust and particulates. Repaint using a one part polyurethane paint such as "Interlux", or "Petit". These can be applied by brush or by spray. Even brushing works really well if you thin down by about 20% with brushing fluid or add leveling agents. If you really want a super durable finish that will last 15 years or better, use "Imron" or "AwlGrip" 2 part polyurethane finishes. Quite expensive and more difficult to apply though, but worth it.

 

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Comment 1 / 2 - Submitted 68 days ago...

PWTEngineer

PWTEngineer

Beginner (44)

He asked about re gel coating not painting so his question was not answered

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Comment 2 / 2 - Submitted 57 days ago...

CapnBilly

CapnBilly

Beginner (13)

Gel coat is made to be used in an airless environment in order to bond and harden. It is normally sprayed onto the release agent inside of a mold, and then the fiberglass is applied. You want to do the opposite, which means that you will have to use what they call "top coat". It is like gel coat, but it is made to dry and harden in the air, and can be used for gel coat repairs, or for getting that new color you want for your boat. Sand the old gel coat with 50 grit sandpaper, wipe down with acetone, after it is dry, you can spray on the top coat. You must add the same hardener in top coat that you use in fiberglass. Mix it well, and only mix what you can use in a short time.

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