bottom paint removal ??
 

question for the gang - removal of bottom paint -at home-, I realize I could tow it somewhere and spend money - can't go that route ...

Sanding is the obvious, and laborious route. Is there some chemical sauce that works well on deeply layered bottom paint, without harming the fiberglass ?

Some mix of the two - sand off the worst, stopping before hitting the gelcoat, and then coat and strip the remainder ?

I trailer the boat, and don't expect to be putting bottom paint back on, so I want to try and not kill the gelcoat.

thanks

Bill

Re: bottom paint removal ??
 

I used an electric Porter Cable DA w/ 80 grit and removed all the bottom paint (2) seasons ago. It was a 5 hour job, but once done, I will never have to do it again - using ablative paint from now on. Might be an easier way, but that is how I did it. No cost, my labor. Also, definitely use a mask and safety glasses - that stuff is toxic !

Re: bottom paint removal ??
 

Bill,
Not the best way to do it because it will eat the gel coat if sunlight hits it, but Stripeez does a good job. We removed all the bottom paint from my father's Sceptre in a day. If you go that route, I recommend a cloudy day that is less than 60 degrees.

Re: bottom paint removal ??
 

Go to the Interlux website. I have heard good things about a bottom paint remover (229 i think)