I fixed a crack in the gelcoat with spectrum patch kit and cant seem to get the fine scratches out? Here is what I did, patched hole, sanded 220 to 600 to 1000 then to 1500 buffed with compound and still see dual slots (looks like fine scratches)? Any ideas? thanks

I've never used a repair kit but do gel repair. What is included in the kit? Filling and spraying? Also what buffing compound are you using? Sorry for the questions but never used the kit and if your spraying gel you shouldn't have to sand with 220 or 600 grit and that is probably where the scratch marks are coming from. Let me know the steps in the kit and I could probably give you a better idea.
Brandon

Brandon, the spectrum patch kit comes in 2 parts that you mix together, you put in on like bondo, im using turtle buffing compound.

I did a similar repair, maybe you just need to spend more time sanding out the 220 scratches like bhensley said.

Use a more aggressive compound something like 3M Perfect It. Also are you using a orbital buffer or a buffing wheel? If your using a orbital buffer its not for cutting, but more for polishing. Hope this helps 1000 grit should take out any scratches and the compound will remove the fine scratches left from that.

When you spread the gel on you need to get it as smooth as possible when doing so. If it is too rough you will need to start the sanding with 220. Then once smooth and ruffed up you can apply more gel to make it smootherso you should be able to sand it with an 800 grit. I use 800 wet sand on a sanding block. (3M sanding block from local parts store for like $3.) Once as smooth as possible with 800, wetsand with 1000 and 1500 grits. When wetsanding with 1000 and higher grit, use a 3M foam sanding pad and wrap the sand paper around that. You will need more flexibility than you cant get with the block and using bare hands will leave low spots where you're fingers were applying more pressure. After sanding is done, buff out with a 3M heavy grit compound and then 3m perfect-it II. Use both compounds with a buffing wheel, not an orbital buffer. Hope this helps.
Brandon