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Well, it has been a long wait, but I was finally able to go pick up my 1976 outrage 19. Upon seeing it, the gel coat looks a bit dull. Is this something I can take a buffer to in attempt to brighten it up a bit? Other than that, it seems to be in amazing shape! I'm sure I will be quite a bit more vocal on the forks here as I get the "Sea-horse"ready for the water.

-Kiley

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It is amazing what a good buffer, a lot of elbow grease and a few days of time can do to gelcoat.

Many owners jump to painting rather than detailing the hull. I was shocked when i did both of my boats, they looked totally different.

Is the gelcoat chalky? White residue on your finger after running it over the gelcoat?

Is it just dull and not shiny?

Note, a good variable speed buffer is recommended. Not too large (10") or too small (4"). I prefer Porter Cable or Makita tools myself.

If chalky, one would start by either wet sanding or using a heavy duty fiberglass compound. 3M, Starbright, Meguiers are several decent brands.

Example: http://www.iboats.com/3m-trade-Marine...w_id.39222.

IF not chalky but dull, start with a medium duty compound. One good product is Meguirers #44
http://www.wholesalemarine.com/meguia...torer.html

I would follow that with 3M's Finesse-It II finishing product.
http://www.iboats.com/3M-Marine-Fines...w_id.39247

A good marine wax will protect your work.

I suggest watching some videos on Youtube on technique before you start. IF a novice, it saves lots of mistakes and aggravation.

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Phil,

Thanks for the insight. I am going to run by the stall and check all surfaces to see if I find some sort of chalky residue.

Is this a buffer you would recommend?
http://www.amazon.com/Makita-9227CX3-...B0001GUE8Q

Thanks again!

Kiley

Also, I will try to post some pictures of the quality the gel coat is in tomorrow.

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That would be one of the several good choices.

On the gelcoat, even if it's not chalky, a good buffing will take off all the oxidation and bring back the original color and shine.

My hulls appeared whitish prior to wet sanding and applying compounding but changed to a light tannish white after buffing. Now I understand what color Desert Tan really is.