Does anybody know...

kev_79

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Aug 5, 2001
Messages
355
What is the best grit sandpaper to prep existing gel coat for a new coat. Or is there some other process necessary. I have finally got the floor out, and am about to be up to my eyeballs in fiberglass repair!!! Thanks in advance. :cool:
 

kev_79

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Aug 5, 2001
Messages
355
Re: Does anybody know...

thanks grandx, I figured a grit around 180 or so. I am making progress, and am not really looking forward to what is ahead, but I will love it when I can look back at a job well done....If I make it that far!!! :eek:
 

grandx

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
May 21, 2001
Messages
383
Re: Does anybody know...

kev79, Sounds like your making some progress. I gotta think that the new gel coat comes with some type of instructions about prepping. You have to at least remove the gloss from the old coat for the new one to take hold, then remove dust etc with acetone or reccomended solvent. I'm thinking 150 grit and lots of it (it will load up quickly). For the inside structural work that wont be seen 80, grit will go faster. I would do a very small area not so visible to start with then work my way up as I get more comfortable with the process. after wiping the sanded area with solvent I would apply coat soon after (don't let it sit for days and collect dust/moisture etc). Boy, I can think of a couple of other things I'd rather do... best of luck.
 

icytek

Cadet
Joined
Sep 18, 2001
Messages
6
Re: Does anybody know...

After you sand with medium grit(120-180)then you need to pass over it with at least a 220 grit or if you really want a smooth finish then go with a 400 grit. The smoother the surface the better the finish. Also make sure that the surface is well preped and extra clean.
 
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