Wet sanding with 800 grit on gel coat ?

[Ccoe1]

I have some small areas that need the use of some sandpaper to get cleaned. Would it be a bad idea to hit them with some 800 grit or will that damage the gel coat.

 

[surlyjoe]

Re: Wet sanding with 800 grit on gel coat ?

above the waterline gelcoat can be color sanded and buffed out just like paint. be sure to wax/seal it when you are done.. try a magic eraser first! its an abrasive (melamine foam) but a very fine one and wont take as much buffing to get the shine back.

 

[GT1000000]

Re: Wet sanding with 800 grit on gel coat ?

I would recommend starting with the least abrasive method first...
A mild Polishing compound, If that doesn't bring the shine back, go to a rubbing compound, then polish and buff, If that still doesn't do it, then work your way to the more aggressive grits until you get the desired result.
Definitely protect your finished work with some good grade marine wax...
You will have to re-apply it, depending on the use, every so often to keep from having the gel coat oxidize...

 

[Ccoe1]

Re: Wet sanding with 800 grit on gel coat ?

I have a buffer. Any recommendation on what to use after sanding on it.

 

[stratcat88]

Re: Wet sanding with 800 grit on gel coat ?

i had a cloudy finish on the boat i have now. came across a product at miami boat show called polly-glow. 2-part process. it has a rinse and after you scrub it with the aplicator that comes with it you let it dri and apply 5 coats of the finish. last for a year. and let me tell ya the stuff really works. good luck.