Gelcoating a Jet Boat

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#1

First post!

I am going to attempt to gelcoat a jetboat for the first time. Its a '69 that has been in the family its entire life and my cousin and I are restoring it. I was wondering if you guys suggest using duratech to help thin out the gel so lays a little flatter. Also, whats the process between coats? just let it dry? or sand flat between coats? what grit of sandpaper? how many coats?

The boat will be a 2 tone metalflake. I assume I will apply a layer of tack then lay the flake down then clear gel over that.

Also, any tips and suggestions on odors? I will be doing this in a residential apartment complex garage with neighbors above the garage. I read about some odor suppresants, but not sure what to get or where to get them.

I have several questions, but not sure where to begin. It seems on other boards, ive been getting many mixed answers and I hope I can get some straight ones here.

Thanks!

-Brad
www.socaljetboats.com

#2

Your in for big problems trying that metal flake process…and in an apt. parking lot too!

RevChem has PER odor suppressor and everything you need.

For the last several clear coats, you will need surfacing agent (liquid wax) to seal off the air so you can sand it. I have a gallon of it and can make you a deal on some of it…a little goes a long way!

#3

haha…no, I am not trying to do this in the parking lot. I have an attached garage.

What are the problems I will run into using that metalflake process?

What process should I use with the metalflake? Mixing it doesnt seem like a logical concept. it seems like I would have to mix A LOT to get it to cover 100% and this stuff is not cheap. House of Kolor is like $30 for 4oz

#4

It has to be mixed in and sprayed very evenly. put some marbles in the cup and continuously shake it to keep it mixed up. The odor suppressors will help kill the odor of the styrene but the styrene will still be there along with the health issues. you will need a lot of flake to do full coverage, look at fiberglass places for flake you may find it cheaper than HoK. don’t for get about all the over spray that will get everywhere. I would either invest in dump gun or at very least a pressure fed 2 quart gun so you can get enough material out and not have to fill it every 30 seconds. I only once regelled a boat, It was tons of work but turned out fine.