I was going to use Rust-Oleum Topside Paint, but then I accidentally discovered COMET cleaner..

[1985 Century Mustang]

I was going to paint just the topside of my boat as it was pretty ratty looking, especially the back deck top. I used some Comet, and scrubbed it well so that the paint would adhere to it, but then I realized it looked freaking amazing when I was done. It turns out I'm not going to paint it after all, and the vinyl came out nice too. Comet acted like a rubbing compound if you will.

I wish I had some before and after pics, but unfortunately I didn't take any pics before I attempted it. Perhaps, I can dig one up, if so I'll post one.

 

[dingbat]

Here is what I use to clean up the non-skid and topside. Basically Comet in paste form

Works like a charm…

MaryKate® Cleaning Detail® Non-Skid Deck Cleaner, 32 Fl Oz

Cleans and brightens fiberglass, stainless steel, chrome, aluminum, and brass. Removes dirt, grease, grime and chalking. Easy to use on most surfaces above the waterline. Great for non-skid decks, shower stalls & tubs.

www.crcindustries.com

 

[Stinnett21]

I had to Comet wash my car after it sat under a Bradford pear in the fall. Yeah Comet will do the job. You wanna follow up with a good polymer or wax though.

 

[flashback]

The grapevine says bleach,/comet is hard on the vinyl and stitching so be shure to treat it with 303 or something similar.

 

[1985 Century Mustang]

I had to Comet wash my car after it sat under a Bradford pear in the fall. Yeah Comet will do the job. You wanna follow up with a good polymer or wax though.

Yep, it's getting waxed tomorrow.

 

[dingbat]

The grapevine says bleach,/comet is hard on the vinyl and stitching so be shure to treat it with 303 or something similar.

You see that quite a bit on the internet, but I suspect the root of it goes back to the days of Naugahyde.

Modern day vinyl (flexible PVC) and stitching (nylon) both have excellent chemical resistance to sodium hyperchoride (bleach)

I suspect the continued caution for using bleach as a cleaner stems from to its interaction with other common household compounds to form chorine gas, which can be deadly in an enclosed spaces.

 

[1985 Century Mustang]

I tried out the topside paint on the rear transom today, it dries quick and looks pretty dam good. 3 coats. Let's see how it holds up.

 

[flashback]

Looks good.

 

[cyclops222]

My 2002 Chaparral has had LOADS of bleach on the white plastic seats & the stitching being synthetic also. No damages. Completely removes spider poop stains on sunny days.

 

[1985 Century Mustang]

Looks good.

Thanks flash