Water lines on pontoons came back so fast!

jjaaam

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Jun 22, 2022
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3
Hi all - first post here.

I have a 2002 Tracker pontoon. I’ll admit I haven’t been the best with upkeep over the years, but I’m coming around, LOL.

Just a few days ago I cleaned my pontoons for the first time. I used Star Brite Ultimate Aluminum Cleaner/Restorer. It took 4 or 5 applications but they cleaned up pretty good. They did look a little white/hazy, but I just figured I might have to polish them at some point.

Today was the first time in the water since they were cleaned. After only a few hours, the pontoons look almost as bad as they did before I cleaned them. Very prominent water line and stains.

What did I do wrong? I’d really appreciate any advice/guidance as to what I need to do.

Thanks!
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
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47,296
You have to seal the toon log surface with sharkhyde or similar
 

jjaaam

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Jun 22, 2022
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3
You have to seal the toon log surface with sharkhyde or similar
Is this because they are so old?

I have a friend who uses aluminum cleaner every year. I don’t think he polishes or seals after cleaning. By no means am I debating your advice - I’m sure you’re right - but I wonder why he doesn’t have the same problems?
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
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Jul 23, 2011
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47,296
Could be different alloys, who knows. However when you clean aluminum, it will corrode quickly. Depending on ph of water, it may stain. Hence the suggestion to apply a sealer
 

jjaaam

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Jun 22, 2022
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3
So I need to clean them again, then seal. Got it. Hoping that the cleaning won’t take so many applications this time, LOL
 
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