Gelcoat problems...

[TrKent]

Hey all,

Working on a boat for my cousin. The gelcoat hasn't really been touched since new in 1989. While I can get some great test spots like pictured below, the RUPES 21 with Blue pad & either Meg's 100, 105 or RUPES Zephir do not seem to cut down enough. It won't cut down all of the oxidation. I have also tried Surbuf, Spider & Microfiber pads with multiple combinations of compounds. Even after two times over with the RUPES Blue pad and & M100 (4-6 section passes each time) there is still oxidation left.

Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[cplchris]

for gelcoat a rotary would be the proper tool, a flex 3401 might do the trick if you have one, use either wool or a high cutting power foam pad also, get a product meant for gelcoat, 105/205 wont do a whole lot on gelcoat, and using a da on it is putting a lot of wear and tear on the polisher, if you dont have a rotary get a cheap harbor freight one.

 

[scrubs147]

Rotary, wool pad, and Presta Super Cut Compound - Follow up with Megs 100 Pro Speed Compound with Yellow pad on the Rupes... you'll be impressed.