Fast Bottoms

Submitted by johncallis on Sat, 03/31/2007 - 03:18
Forums: 
Racer's Rap

The gelcoat on my boat is in good shape, with only a few minor scratches. I'm looking to roll her over next week and fill them all in. After fixing scratches, one would think that a good compounding and then a coat of wax would be a good idea.
The problem is that I have heard that gelcoat that has been waxed is actually slower than one that was not waxed.
So what do you think? What makes the bottom the fastest? I've heard of simply wetsanding, and I have also heard of some other products that should be used rather than wax.

Thanks for your input
3873

karafiath

Wed, 04/04/2007 - 08:53

I use a marine polish, not wax, to seal in the pores on a wet sanded gel coat. With the polish there is much less staining of the hull due to water pollution such as the occasional oil blob. As for speed, I sincerely doubt that you will be able to tell the difference between a polish applied on a wet sanded gel coat and the same wet sanded gel coat without polish. Recent tests on a laser centerboard indicate that anything beyond a 400 grit sanding is a waste of effort.

sawyerspadre

Wed, 11/28/2007 - 13:44

Does Starbrite teflon last "less than one year"?

Could be debated.

Phil Scheetz
FS 4086

mlp8415

Wed, 11/28/2007 - 14:49

I am new.....so what is the rule about a year?

sawyerspadre

Wed, 11/28/2007 - 18:21

FSSA Handbook
ARTICLE S-V - RACING RESTRICTIONS

3. No temporary coating of grease, graphite, pot lead, etc. is
allowed on the hull, center-board or rudder. Waxing of the hull,
centerboard and deck may be done at the option of the owner.
(See also CMR’s #28 & 72)

CMR #28. Any bottom coating which is represented by the manufacturer
as designed to last one season is not a "temporary coating" and
therefore not prohibited under the provision of S-V-3.

CMR #72. The use of any liquid soap, detergent, soap or any such
wetting agent applied to coat the hull , centerboard or rudder is
prohibited under the provisions of S-V-3. Any such material may
be applied to clean the hull, but must be removed (squeaky
clean) prior to launching the boat. (March 1994)

Phil Scheetz
FS 4086