getting back my original gelcoat

[justus]

I am removing anti-fouling paint from the side of my boat from sides and transom (from bottom up to waterline)and want to achieve the original gelcoat and color. The gelcoat is scored in this area, I think where original owner prepped to have the anti-fouling paint adhere (circular score marks). I trailer and don't need bottom paint and the bottom paint was wearing off and looks pretty shi**y anyway. Just want to go back to original. Any suggestions on how to accomplish this is appreciated.

[Russ G.]

It sounds like he used a DA sander. If the grit he used is not to heavy you can get the finish back. You have to figure out what grit he used and sand the bottom with lighter grits until around 600 to 800 grit sand paper. Then buff the bottom with a heavy cut compound then a medium compound and finish with a light polishing compund. Then some hand wax and your ready to go. To bed that is, Its murder believe me I did it last spring. The worst part is your laying on your back reaching up to to the job. I blocked the bottom with 600 wet sand. Water driping all over me and reaching up with that heavy buffer stinks. But is worth it in the end. And gel coat is so easy to buff compared to car finishes.

Russ