Paint???

[birdy3897]

I have a 1978 Imperial Tri-hull 16ft and the color of this boat is like a metallic green. The sides of the boat are shinny the paint looks great, but the topside is another story. It is very dull and has no shine to it at all. I sprayed a shot of automotive polyurethane on it and it glistened and shined just like it was new. My question is, is this the gel-coat that is faded off of the paint? Can I use just the automotive poly to bring it back to a shine or should it require gel-coat?

 

[mattttt25]

Re: Paint???

the paint/finish is oxidized. it happens. go to your local marine store and check out their polishes. i prefer 3m for everything. 3m sells 3 'levels' of polish- straight polish, one with a light compound, and one for heavy compounding. i wash the areas well (to get rid of whatever you put on it), and go with the heavy compund wax. may take a few applications and some work. then follow with the straight wax. should shine up nicely. if it doesn't, you can go with wet sanding. but be sure to use a sanding block, lots of water, and 1500 or 2000 grit paper.

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Paint???

I know many that have wet sanded the finish and sprayed with clear coat and have had great results.Always best to see if a polish compound and wax will do it.All depends on how bad it really is.

 

[KRS]

Re: Paint???

Maybe post some pics for us.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Paint???

Can I use just the automotive poly to bring it back to a shine

I've painted Many boats with Ureathane,......<br />Both Above,+ Below the Waterline.........<br />And,......<br />With Proper Preparation,........<br /><br />It Works Beautifully,..........