Cleaning Hull

[rebars1]

I picked up a old boat to restore a couple of months ago and have been working on the engine and wiring. I'm getting ready to clean up the hull, however, the bottom has a pretty thick layer of dried algie or moss. What is recommended for a good way to clean it off (besides using my kids!) Is there any special cleaning solution to use?

 

[spartanpele]

Re: Cleaning Hull

Try some baking soda in a paste form (mix baking soda and water) and scrub with a stiff brush. See if that works. I used that formula for removing old sticky stuff from pinstripes and decals and it worked well.

 

[f_inscreenname]

Re: Cleaning Hull

If that doesn't work then try "On-Off" bottom cleaner. It is nasty stuff but it works. You can get at most places that carry marine stuff.

 

[rebars1]

Re: Cleaning Hull

Thank you both for the info. I'll give them a try and report back.

 

[woosterken]

Re: Cleaning Hull

You mite also try easy off oven cleaner

 

[arfaname]

Re: Cleaning Hull

I have used a "K&H" product here in Aus that is acid based. It called "Gelcoat Restorer". <br /><br /> http://www.khsurfacetech.aust.com/index_marine.html <br /><br />It brightens your whites and removes stains from your hull. I used it on mine on the weekend to test a patch. It worked well. Simply brush/spray on , leave 15 minutes and hose off. Used on previous boats with great results. <br /><br />Sean

 

[rebars1]

Re: Cleaning Hull

arfaname: It sounds like good stuff. Does it remove the gloss of the gelcoat as it is cleaning it? Did you have to buff/polish it out to get it shiney again?

 

[prockvoan]

Re: Cleaning Hull

1 part muratic acid to 3 parts water.Put the water in a bucket then add the acid.Use outdoors,full saftey equipment,glasses,rubber gloves.Apply with clean old rags,let it sit for about 10 mins,rinse off with water.<br />Have some bakensoda,if you get any on you,put some soda on it.<br />Cost is around $4.00 per gal.Any Home depot,lumber company or pool supply will have it.Strenth is 28% pure.

 

[sea wolf]

Re: Cleaning Hull

Nah, Slimy Grimy. Comes in a 1 lb. tub. It'a a powder that u mix with hot water, spray it on & let it sit for a few minutes, then hose it off. However if the buildup is really heavy u may have to scrub using a mildly abrasive brush, so as not to scratch the gelcoat. I bought it a local boat dealer & is rather pricy at $20. But, I only used half the tub & had plenty left over of what I mixed. And it won't burn the **** out of u like that On & Off will.