What compound/wax's to use first?

[silvereagle]

I have a new/old boat from 1988 it has white on top the is heavley chalked,what compound to use first?it has no shine and very dull white,then underneath is green gel-coat that washed up ok with dirt stains here and there,I also need recommendations on pads to use,thanks so much

[silvereagle]

Re: What compound/wax's to use first?

I want to ask should I start with the marine power cut 91? or something less agreesive?

[BillE]

Re: What compound/wax's to use first?

First a question...you working with a machine (rotory or DA) or by hand? This WILL make a big difference on which product to use.

Power Cut is the top of the line (aggresivness) for marine compounds. What do you have on hand now?

Bill

[Murr1525]

Re: What compound/wax's to use first?

Also, and car products already on hand?

[silvereagle]

Re: What compound/wax's to use first?

I have a rotary,I am going to go the agressive route I think on the boat above the bow line,it is clean but very weathered/chalkie but clean after I power washed the mold off.and maybe on the green gel coat that is clean but still has some shine but black rain/dirt discolored I will go less agressive? can you also recommend the best pads to use for each of my sections? thank you for all the help,

[silvereagle]

Re: What compound/wax's to use first?

I have MEGUIRES auto carnuba paste,quick detail,cleaner wax,all3 steps polish,wax removers.

[BillE]

Re: What compound/wax's to use first?

Using Power Cut follow up with, say, HD Oxidation Remover (M-49). For a wax, Flagship is a good choice.

Can't help ya out about pads, etc. for the rotary...been too many years since I've swung one.

Good luck and let everyone know how it goes...

Bill

[silvereagle]

Re: What compound/wax's to use first?

what is your recc, on what pads to use? thanks

[silvereagle]

Re: What compound/wax's to use first?

please help on pad selection

[Jomax]

3M Perfect-It Low Linting 8 Inch Wool Pad it's double sided, so you have two sides for compounding.

[Michael Stoops]

Re: What compound/wax's to use first?

A wool pad may or may not be the best choice, it really all depends on how the gel coat responds. We've seen cases where it almost caused more problems than it solved, and cases where it was the absolute best choice. It's almost impossible to say "use this pad, this liquid, this speed on the tool and you'll get a perfect result", and that's true whether you're working on auto paint or gel coat on a boat or RV. Just too darn many variables. We would have a good wool pad, a couple of foam cutting pads and a couple of foam polishing pads on hand just to be safe. Do a test spot or two and take it from there. Speed selection on the tool, your comfort level with various pads, etc will also play a role here. You're are going to have to experiment a bit, but from your description of the finish, and the shear age of the gel coat (and this is actually a huge consideration on 20 year old gel coat) you are most likely going to have to be fairly aggressive. That means either wool or foam cutting pads to start.